“To pray to God is to flatter oneself that with words one can alter nature.”
Quote Analysis
Voltaire's quote, "To pray to God is to flatter oneself that with words one can alter nature," suggests a cynical view of prayer. In this statement, Voltaire questions the effectiveness of prayer in changing the outcome of natural events. Instead of seeing prayer as a means of influencing God, he sees it as a form of self-flattery, implying that humans cannot control or change the course of nature through mere words. This quote challenges traditional beliefs about the power and purpose of prayer, and encourages reflection on the true intentions behind one's prayers.
Modern Relevance:
Voltaire's quote challenges the idea of prayer as a means to change the course of events by appealing to a higher power. In today's society, where scientific advancements have propelled humanity forward, some may argue that prayer is merely a form of self-assurance or comfort rather than a tool for altering natural outcomes. This quote reminds us to be mindful of our actions and the impact they have on the world around us, rather than relying solely on divine intervention.
Voltaire on Prayer
One of Voltaire's famous quotes is "To pray to God is to flatter oneself that with words one can alter nature." This quote reflects his skepticism towards the efficacy of prayer and the idea that words alone can change the course of events.
Reflection Questions:
Reflect on the quote by Voltaire and consider the following questions:
- What do you think Voltaire meant by suggesting that praying to God is a form of self-flattery?
- Do you agree or disagree with the idea that words cannot alter nature?
- How does prayer influence your understanding of the power of language and communication?
- In what ways do you think prayer impacts your view of the natural world and your place within it?
- How can reflecting on these questions deepen your understanding of the role of prayer in your life?
Similar quotes
“One must pray first, but afterwards one must help oneself. God does not care for cowards.--"Wanda”
“Meditating on the nature and dignity of prayer can cause saying at least one thing to God: Lord, teach us to pray!”
“The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.”
“How can one set these opposite states in harmony? There is only one way: through giving oneself completely. How does one give oneself? By forgetting the traumas of the past, and by not forming expectations about the future - in other words, the orgasm. How can one do this? Very simply: by not being afraid to err.”
“And that next day, he was in the black mood, what we call the swartgalligheid, which is the black gall. And the heart is black too, and the world is black, and one can tell oneself that it will pass, but these are only words that one speaks to oneself, for while it is there it is no comfort that it will pass.”