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Thou shalt not commit adultry is a command which makes no distinction between the following persons. They are all required to obey it: children at birth. Children in the cradle. School children. Youths and maidens. Fresh adults. Older ones. Men and women of 40. Of 50. Of 60. Of 70. Of 80. Of 100. The command does not distribute its burden equally, and cannot. It is not hard upon the three sets of children.
Mark Twain
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote highlights the universality and strictness of moral commandments regarding fidelity.

Mark Twain emphasizes that the commandment against adultery applies equally to everyone, regardless of their age or stage in life. He illustrates that moral responsibilities do not waver or lessen with age, and that everyone is bound by the same ethical guidelines, suggesting a deep-seated understanding of fidelity in relationships.

Themes

AdulteryMoralityFidelityRelationshipsAge

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a discussion on the importance of fidelity in relationships.

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