Man makes holy what he believes as he makes beautiful what he loves.
Ernest RenanRead
None of the miracles with which ancient histories are filled, occurred under scientific conditions. Observation never once contradicted, teaches us that miracles occur only in periods and countries in which they are believed in and before persons disposed to believe in them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that miracles are culturally and contextually bound to the beliefs of people and do not happen under scientific scrutiny.
Ernest Renan's quote reflects on the nature of miracles and how they are often perceived through the lens of cultural beliefs. He asserts that historical accounts of miraculous events are only valid in contexts where belief in such phenomena is prevalent, implying that scientific observation, which requires skepticism and rationality, does not support the claim of genuine miracles. The idea is that miracles thrive in an atmosphere of faith and are rejected by a rational, scientific approach.
Themes
MiraclesBeliefScienceCultureSkepticism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a philosophy class discussion about the intersection of science and religion.
More from Ernest Renan
All quotes →Forgetfulness, and I would even say historical error, are essential in the creation of a nation.
Ernest RenanRead
When people complain of life, it is almost always because they have asked impossible things of it.
Ernest RenanRead
He whom God has touched will always be a being apart: he is, whatever he may do, a stranger among men; he is marked by a sign.
Ernest RenanRead
Let us remember that sorrow alone is the creator of great things.
Ernest RenanRead
The talent of historians lies in their creating a true ensemble out of facts which are but half true.
Ernest RenanRead
Similar quotes
Nevertheless, it is even harder for the average ape to believe that he has descended from man.
H. L. MenckenRead
The measure of a man's real character is what he would do if he knew he would never be found out.
Thomas B. MacaulayRead
Corporations aren't people. They have no brains, no consciences, no capacity for intent or guilt.
Robert ReichRead
All meditations are nothing but efforts to bring you to the present. When you live in the present moment, with no past hanging around you, with no future projection, you are free from life and death, you are free from body and mind. You are free - simply free - you are freedom.
RajneeshRead
The true worth of a race must be measured by the character of its womanhood.
Mary Mcleod BethuneRead
When I am silent, I have thunder hidden inside.
RumiRead