Religion without humanity is very poor human stuff.
Sojourner TruthRead
When I left the house of bondage I left everything behind. I wasn't going to keep nothing of Egypt on me, an' so I went to the Lord an' asked him to give me a new name. And he gave me Sojourner because I was to travel up and down the land showing the people their sins and bein' a sign unto them. I told the Lord I wanted two names 'cause everybody else had two, and the Lord gave me Truth, because I was to declare the truth to the people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Sojourner Truth emphasizes the importance of shedding one's past and embracing a new identity in the pursuit of truth and justice.
In this quote, Sojourner Truth reflects on her journey from slavery to freedom, indicating that she intentionally left behind her old life symbolized by Egypt to embrace a new identity and purpose. By seeking a new name, she acknowledges her transformation and commitment to truth, as she felt called to educate others about their own shortcomings and injustices, reinforcing her role as a messenger of truth and social change.
Themes
TruthIdentityFreedomJusticeTransformation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is powerful to use during a speech about personal growth and overcoming adversity.
More from Sojourner Truth
All quotes →That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman?
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The rich rob the poor and the poor rob one another.
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Good man! Genuine gentleman! God bless George Thompson, the great-hearted friend of my race.
Sojourner TruthRead
And ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain't I a woman?
Sojourner TruthRead
Because of them I can now live the dream. I am the seed of the free, and I know it. I intend to bear great fruit.
Sojourner TruthRead
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