“To pray to God is to flatter oneself that with words one can alter nature.”
Explore This Quote Further
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
“Men must have somewhat altered the course of nature; for they were not born wolves, yet they have become wolves. God did not give them twenty-four-pounders or bayonets, yet they have made themselves bayonets and guns to destroy each other. In the same category I place not only bankruptcies, but the law which carries off the bankrupts’ effects, so as to defraud their creditors.”
“He wanted to know how they prayed to God in El Dorado. "We do not pray to him at all," said the reverend sage. "We have nothing to ask of him. He has given us all we want, and we give him thanks continually.”
“mankind have a little corrupted nature, for they were not born wolves, and they have become wolves; God has given them neither cannon of four-and-twenty pounders, nor bayonets; and yet they have made cannon and bayonets to destroy one another.”
“Our character is composed of our ideas and our feelings: and, since it has been proved that we give ourselves neither feelings nor ideas, our character does not depend on us. If it did depend on us, there is nobody who would not be perfect. If one does not reflect, one thinks oneself master of everything; but when one does reflect, one realizes that one is master of nothing”
“One great use of words is to hide our thoughts.”
“I have never made but one prayer to God, a very short one: Oh Lord, make my enemies ridiculous. And God granted it."(Letter to Étienne Noël Damilaville, May 16, 1767)”