What is the essence of theosophy? It is the fact that man, being himself divine, can know the divinity whose life he shares. As an inevitable corollary to this supreme truth comes the fact of the brotherhood of man.
Annie BesantRead
You should always take a religion at its best and not at its worst, from its highest teachings and not from the lowest practices of some of its adherents.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Embrace the best aspects of religion, rather than the negative practices of some followers.
Annie Besant's quote encourages individuals to appreciate the core, positive teachings of various religions instead of focusing on the flawed actions of some believers. It suggests that the essence of religious thought and belief should be held in higher regard than the misinterpretations or misapplications of its principles by individuals, thus fostering a more holistic and generous understanding of faith.
Themes
ReligionTeachingBeliefUnderstandingPositivity
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on interfaith dialogue, you could use this quote to highlight the importance of focusing on shared values.
More from Annie Besant
All quotes βNo durable things are built on violent passion. Nature grows her plants in silence and in darkness, and only when they have become strong do they put their heads above the ground.
Annie BesantRead
Death consists, indeed, in a repeated process of unrobing, or unsheathing. The immortal part of man shakes off from itself, one after the other, its outer casings, and - as the snake from its skin, the butterfly from its chrysalis - emerges from one after another, passing into a higher state of consciousness.
Annie BesantRead
Let Indian history be set side by side with Europe history with what there is of the latter century by century and let us see whether India need blush at the comparison.
Annie BesantRead
My own life in India, since I came to it in 1893 to make it my home, has been devoted to one purpose, to give back to India her ancient freedom.
Annie BesantRead
Knowledge is essential to conquest; only according to our ignorance are we helpless. Thought creates character. Character can dominate conditions. Will creates circumstances and environment.
Annie BesantRead
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