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About this quote

What does it mean?
On his deathbed, Voltaire refused to make new enemies by renouncing the devil.
In plain terms
He chose not to offend anyone even when asked on his deathbed.
What can you take from it?
Avoid making enemies when possible.

Where it applies

  • end of life
  • religious conflict
  • political speech

Putting it to work

  • conflict avoidance
  • maintaining dignity
  • religious neutrality

Questions to consider

  • Is it worth fighting for principles at the end?
  • How do you handle religious pressure?

Another view

Refusing religious requests may cause spiritual conflict for some.

More from Voltaire

  1. No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking.

    Permalink to quote #86
  2. The art of medicine consists in amusing the patient while nature cures the diseases.

    Permalink to quote #88
  3. Marriage is the only adventure open to the cowardly.

    Permalink to quote #85

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