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Best friend Quote by Tom Robbins

“As a grandiose self-deception, war is o’ the same magnitude as religion. We embrace war or religion - usually both at the same time - as a means o’ defeatin’ death, but neither o’ them do a blinkin’ thing but sanction dyin’. Throughout history, Death’s best friend has been a priest with a knife.” quote by Tom Robbins
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““As a grandiose self-deception, war is o’ the same magnitude as religion. We embrace war or religion - usually both at the same time - as a means o’ defeatin’ death, but neither o’ them do a blinkin’ thing but sanction dyin’. Throughout history, Death’s best friend has been a priest with a knife.””

Tom Robbins

About This Quote

Source Book: Still Life with Woodpeckers by Tom Robbins, 1980

War and religion are parallel grand deceptions that people use to deny mortality, yet both ultimately accept death.

In simple terms: War and religion both hide death but end in it.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question the narratives that justify conflict.

Themes

war religion death illusion power

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • personal reflection
  • historical analysis
  • ethical discussions

Key Concepts

existentialism social critique psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you see war and religion influencing each other?
  • What alternatives exist to confronting mortality?
A Different Perspective

These narratives can oversimplify complex causes of conflict.

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