To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
The way to see by Faith is to shut the Eye of Reason.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Faith requires us to go beyond rational thinking to understand deeper truths.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin suggests that true faith is not reliant on reason or empirical evidence. It implies that to genuinely perceive and understand certain aspects of life, one must sometimes set aside logical reasoning and accept beliefs that cannot be explained through rational thought alone. This perspective challenges the reader to consider the balance between faith and reason in their own understanding of the world.
Themes
FaithReasonBeliefUnderstandingPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in discussions about spirituality versus science in a debate.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes →He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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