Atheist Quote by William Symington
““The pretences of the atheist are so ridiculous, that they are not worth the mentioning. They never saw God, and therefore know not how to believe such a being; they cannot comprehend him. He would not be a God, if he could fall within the narrow model of a human understanding; he would not be infinite, if he were comprehensible, or to be terminated by our sight. How small a thing must that be which is seen by a bodily eye, or grasped by a weak mind! If God were visible or comprehensible, he would be limited. Shall it be a sufficient demonstration from a blind man, that there is no fire in the room, because he sees it not, though he feel the warmth of it? The knowledge of the effect is sufficient to conclude the existence of the cause.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Nature of Faith (public lecture)
Atheists cannot fully grasp a deity because belief requires a framework beyond human comprehension; evidence of effects can imply a cause without direct observation.
In simple terms: Belief in God exceeds human understanding; cause can be inferred from effect.
Key Takeaway
Consider how indirect evidence shapes belief.
Themes
faith
philosophy
epistemology
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- scientific inquiry
- personal belief
- ethical decisions
- debates on existence
Key Concepts
inference
limitations of perception
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you think evidence of a cause is enough for belief?
- How do you reconcile unseen causes with rational thought?
A Different Perspective
Atheists may have nuanced views; not all dismiss belief outright.
