Nothing before, nothing behind; The steps of faith Fall on the seeming void, and find The Rock beneath.
John Greenleaf WhittierRead
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
JusticeOppressionFateMoral AccountabilitySociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about social justice movements.
More from John Greenleaf Whittier
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Before me, even as behind, God is, and all is well.
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I know not where His islands lift Their fronded palms in air; I only know I cannot drift Beyond His love and care.
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I'll lift you and you lift me, and we'll both ascend together.
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For all sad words of tongue and pen, The saddest are these, 'It might have been'.
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