Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
A lie might be forgiven by heaven, implying morality is flexible.
In plain terms
Sometimes lying is seen as acceptable under divine grace.
What can you take from it?
Morality can be subjective regarding truth.

Where it applies

  • moral dilemmas
  • relationships
  • justification

Putting it to work

  • reflect on truth
  • consider consequences

Questions to consider

  • Is lying ever right?
  • What matters more truth or kindness?

Another view

It risks justifying dishonesty too easily.

More from Stephen Leacock

  1. It takes a good deal of physical courage to ride a horse. This, however, I have. I get it at about forty cents a flask, and take it as required.

    Permalink to quote #21
  2. It's called political economy because it is has nothing to do with either politics or economy.

    Permalink to quote #23
  3. It may be those who do most, dream most.

    Permalink to quote #20

Related quotes

  1. Do not all theists insist that there can be no morality, no justice, honesty or fidelity without the belief in a Divine Power? Based upon fear and hope, such m…

    Emma GoldmanEmma Goldman quote #19
  2. The greatest tragedy in mankind's entire history may be the hijacking of morality by religion.

    Arthur C. ClarkeArthur C. Clarke quote #22
  3. [After providing reasons for cutting down the Ten Commandments] So, with all this in mind, I leave you with my revised list of the Two Commandments: 'Thou shal…

    George CarlinGeorge Carlin quote #45