Abstraction Quote by Wendell Berry
“People who blame the Bible for the modern destruction of nature have failed to see its delight in the variety and individuality of creatures and its insistence upon their holiness. But that delight-in, say, the final chapters of Job or the 104th Psalm-is far more useful to the cause of conservation than the undifferentiating abstractions of science... Reverence gives standing to creatures, and to our perception of them, just as the law gives standing to a citizen.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Gift of a Garden" by Wendell Berry, 1975
The quote argues that the Bible celebrates biodiversity and sanctity of each creature, offering a moral foundation for conservation that complements scientific approaches.
In simple terms: The Bible values each creature, supporting conservation.
Key Takeaway
Recognize spiritual reverence as a conservation ally.
Themes
conservation
religion
ethics
environmentalism
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental education
- faith-based activism
- wildlife protection
Key Concepts
theology
biodiversity
holiness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can religious reverence be integrated into modern conservation policies?
- What risks arise when spiritual views dominate scientific discourse?
A Different Perspective
Religious texts may be interpreted in ways that ignore ecological concerns.
