Law Quote by Thomas Paine
“Persecution is not an original feature in any religion; but it is always the strongly marked feature of all religions established by law.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Age of Reason” by Thomas Paine, 1794
Religious persecution is not inherent to faith but becomes entrenched when religions gain legal power.
In simple terms: Persecution comes from institutionalized religion.
Key Takeaway
Guard against legal entanglement of belief.
Themes
religion
power
law
human rights
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- legal reform
- interfaith dialogue
- civil rights
Key Concepts
institutionalism
freedom of conscience
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent religion from becoming oppressive?
- How can societies separate law from doctrine?
A Different Perspective
Legal protection can be limited; power dynamics shift.
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