Nothing before, nothing behind; The steps of faith Fall on the seeming void, and find The Rock beneath.
The laws of changeless justice bind oppressor and oppressed; and, close as sin and suffering joined we march to fate abreast.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the inevitability of justice for both the oppressor and the oppressed, highlighting their intertwined destinies.
John Greenleaf Whittier's quote reflects the concept that the principles of justice apply universally, binding both those who oppress and those who are oppressed. It suggests that regardless of one's position in society, justice will ultimately prevail, and the consequences of one's actions—whether good or bad—will eventually lead to their fate. This interconnectedness portrays a powerful image of moral accountability and the inextricable link between sin and suffering.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about social justice movements.
More from John Greenleaf Whittier
All quotes →the joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you
Before me, even as behind, God is, and all is well.
I know not where His islands lift Their fronded palms in air; I only know I cannot drift Beyond His love and care.
I'll lift you and you lift me, and we'll both ascend together.
For all sad words of tongue and pen, The saddest are these, 'It might have been'.
Similar quotes
In the unceasing ebb and flow of justice and oppression we must all dig channels as best we may, that at the propitious moment somewhat of the swelling tide may be conducted to the barren places of life.
The success of any legal system is measured by its fidelity to the universal ideal of justice.
It is better that ten guilty persons escape than one innocent suffer.
Ultimately, we must either abandon our reliance on stop and search or abandon any hope for a criminal justice system grounded in equality, impartiality and fairness.
To allow injustice and inequality invites a Ferguson to your community. We must stand together, black, white, brown, red, and yellow and fight for justice and equality for all. It's the only way to avoid more Fergusons.
It is justice, not charity, that is wanting in the world.