I have no special regard for Satan; but, I can at least claim that I have no prejudice against him. It may even be that I lean a little his way, on account of his not having a fair show. All religions issue bibles against him, and say the most injurious things about him, but we never hear his side. We have none but the evidence for the prosecution, and yet we have rendered the verdict. To my mind, this is irregular. It is un-English, it is un-American; it is French.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Twain criticizes the one-sided portrayal of Satan in religion, noting he is never allowed to defend himself.
- In plain terms
- Satan has never been heard in his own defense.
- What can you take from it?
- Seek the other side before judging.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is justice blind enough?
- Why do we condemn without hearing?
Another view
This argument uses irony and may not align with orthodox theological views.
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