When I look upon seamen, men of science and philosophers, man is the wisest of all beings; when I look upon priests and prophets nothing is as contemptible as man.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I know no man who feels deeper disgust than I do at the ambition, avarice, and profligacy of the priesthood, as well because every one of these vices is odious in itself, as because each of them separately and all of them together are utterly abhorrent in men making profession of a life dedicated to God.
We must not be wise and prudent according to the flesh. Rather, we must be simple, humble and pure.
And all men are ready to pass judgement on the priest as if he was not a being clothed with flesh, or one who inherited a human nature.
For to err in opinion, though it be not the part of wise men, is at least human.
Various are the pleas and arguments which men of corrupt minds frequently urge against yielding obedience to the just and holy commands of God.
There is something feeble and a little contemptible about a man who cannot face the perils of life without the help of comfortable myths.
When we examine the opinions of men, we find that nothing is more uncommon than common sense; or, in other words, they lack judgment to discover plain truths or to reject absurdities and palpable contradictions.
Hardly can it be judged whether it be better for mankind to believe that the gods have regard of us, or that they have none, considering that some men have no respect and reverence for the gods, and others so much that their superstition is a shame to them.
When we see men of worth, we should think of equalling them; when we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inward and examine ourselves.
We are all inclined to judge ourselves by our ideals; others by their acts.
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