Writing is a way of talking without being interrupted.
I have no religion,’ says Borneau, ‘but I respect the religion of others. Religion is sacred.’ Why this privilege, this immunity?... A believer creates God in his own image; if he is ugly, his God will be morally ugly. Why should moral ugliness be respectable?
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the nature of religious belief and morality, suggesting that people's perceptions of God often mirror their own traits.
Jules Renard's quote explores the relationship between individual morality and the conception of God within various religions. He articulates a critical view, questioning why qualities associated with moral ugliness should be honored if they stem from a flawed understanding of divinity, emphasizing the subjectivity inherent in religious beliefs and highlighting the need for respect towards different faiths while also demanding accountability for perceived moral shortcomings.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about interfaith dialogue to emphasize the importance of respect for differing beliefs.
More from Jules Renard
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When I think of all the books still left for me to read, I am certain of further happiness.
It doesn't pay to say too much when you are mad enough to choke. For the word that stings the deepest is the word that is never spoke, Let the other fellow wrangle till the storm has blown away, then he'll do a heap of thinking about the things you didn't say.
Literature is an occupation in which you have to keep proving your talent to people who have none
If I had my life to live over again, I would ask that not a thing be changed, but that my eyes be opened wider.
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