On the whole, we will repeat that this Religion of Mahomet's is a kind of Christianity; has a genuine element of what is spiritually highest looking through it, not to be hidden by all its imperfections. The Scandinavian God Wish, the god of all rude men, - this has been enlarged into a Heaven by Mahomet; but a Heaven symbolical of sacred Duty, and to be earned by faith and well-doing, by valiant action, and a divine patience which is still more valiant. It is Scandinavian Paganism, and a truly celestial element superadded to that. Call it not false; look not at the falsehood of it, look at the truth of it. For these twelve centuries, it has been the religion and life-guidance of the fifth part of the whole kindred of Mankind. Above all things, it has been a religion heartily believed. These Arabs believe their religion, and try to live by it! No Christians, since the early ages, or only perhaps the English Puritans in modern times, have ever stood by their Faith as the Moslem do by theirs, - believing it wholly, fronting Time with it, and Eternity with it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Carlyle argues that Islam contains genuine spiritual truth and duty despite imperfections, blending Scandinavian pagan elements with celestial faith and action.
- In plain terms
- Religion like Islam has real spiritual value and duty, even if it has flaws.
- What can you take from it?
- Look at the truth in a belief system rather than just its falsehoods.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we judge the truth value of different religions?
- What makes a belief system legitimate?
Another view
The claim that Islam is a form of Christianity is historically inaccurate and controversial.
More from Thomas Carlyle
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Permalink to quote #80 Enjoying things which are pleasant; that is not the evil: it is the reducing of our moral self to slavery by them that is.
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