To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
I have found Christian dogma unintelligible. Early in life, I absenteed myself from Christian assemblies.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Benjamin Franklin expresses his confusion and disconnection from Christian beliefs and practices.
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin articulates his struggle to comprehend Christian dogma, leading him to withdraw from religious gatherings. This reflects a broader theme of questioning established beliefs and seeking personal understanding and truth, indicating a preference for reason and enlightenment over traditional faith.
Themes
ChristianityDogmaBeliefPhilosophyTruth
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of questioning traditional beliefs.
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[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
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