Abolishing slavery Quote by William Sloane Coffin
“In reality, there are no biblical literalists, only selective literalists. By abolishing slavery and ordaining women, millions of Protestants have gone far beyond biblical literalism. It's time we did the same for homophobia.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public address on religious interpretation, 1990s
Highlights that literal biblical interpretation is selective, not absolute, and calls for similar scrutiny of homophobia.
In simple terms: Biblical literalism is selective; apply same critique to homophobia.
Key Takeaway
Question selective, apply the to all beliefs.
Themes
religion
ethics
social justice
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
ethical
When to use this quote
- church policies
- public debates
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
interpretation
selectivity
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify selective literalism?
- What criteria should guide reinterpretation?
A Different Perspective
May overlook cultural context of scripture.
