To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
When religion is good, it will take care of itself. When it is not able to take care of itself, and God does not see fit to take care of it, so that it has to appeal to the civil power for support, it is evidence to my mind that its cause is a bad one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A good religion should thrive on its own; when it cannot, it suggests something is wrong.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin reflects the belief that a genuine and valuable religion should possess the strength to sustain itself without external support. When a religion requires the backing of civil authorities, it raises questions about its validity and significance, indicating that it may not be fulfilling its essential purpose or adapting to the needs of its followers.
Themes
ReligionBeliefPhilosophySocietyPower
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the role of religion in modern society.
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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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