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So little care they of beasts to make them men, that by their sorcerous doctrine of formalities, they take the way to transform them out of Christian men into judaizing beasts. Had they but taught the land, or suffered it to be taught, as Christ would it should have been in all plenteous dispensation of the word, then the poor mechanic might have so accustomed his ear to good teaching, as to have discerned between faithful teachers and false. But now, with a most inhuman cruelty, they who have put out the people's eyes, reproach them of their blindness; just as the Pharisees their true fathers were wont, who could not endure that the people should be thought competent judges of Christ's doctrine, although we know they judged far better than those great rabbis: yet 'this people,' said they, 'that know not the law is accursed.'

John Milton#21

EducationAuthorityReligionCriticismReform

About this quote

What does it mean?
Criticism of those who enforce rigid formalities instead of true religious teaching.
In plain terms
Strict rules harm faith more than good teaching.
What can you take from it?
Dogma often corrupts true faith.

Where it applies

  • religious debate
  • education
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • advocating reform
  • critiquing dogma

Questions to consider

  • Is structure harmful to faith?
  • What is true teaching?

Another view

Structure can also provide necessary guidance.

More from John Milton

  1. I will not deny but that the best apology against false accusers is silence and sufferance, and honest deeds set against dishonest words.

    Permalink to quote #20
  2. Truth...never comes into the world but like a bastard, to the ignominy of him that brought her forth.

    Permalink to quote #22
  3. Truth is as impossible to be soiled by any outward touch as the sunbeam.

    Permalink to quote #23

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