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I wonder that religion can live or die on the strength of a faint, stirring breeze. The scent trail shifts, causing the predator to miss the pounce. One god draws in the breath of life and rises; another god expires.
Barbara Kingsolver
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects on the fragility and impermanence of religion and belief systems.

Barbara Kingsolver's quote explores the idea that the existence and influence of religion can be as delicate and transient as a faint breeze. The metaphor suggests that religions rise and fall based on subtle and often unpredictable forces, akin to a predator missing its target due to a change in scent. In this sense, the quote invites reflection on the nature of faith and the external factors that can lead to its growth or decline.

Themes

ReligionFaithFragilityImpermanenceBeliefPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the changing nature of belief systems, one might use this quote to illustrate how vulnerable faith can be.

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