“Let reverence for the laws be breathed by every American mother to the lisping babe that prattles on her lap – let it be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges; let it be written in primers, spelling books, and in almanacs; let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Let reverence for the laws be breathed by every American mother to the lisping babe that prattles on her lap – let it be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges; let it be written in primers, spelling books, and in almanacs; let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln emphasizes the importance of fostering a deep respect for the law within every level of society, starting from childhood. He imagines a world where reverence for the law is taught by mothers to their young children, instilled in schools, and reinforced by various societal institutions, from churches to legislative bodies. Lincoln’s vision is one in which the law is not just a formal structure but a core value that is embedded in the very fabric of American life. He advocates for making the law a central part of public education, from the most basic level to higher education, and ensuring it is a principle upheld in every part of society, from daily life to the halls of justice. Lincoln saw the law as a unifying force that would help to preserve order and liberty in the nation.
Historically, Lincoln’s call for reverence for the law reflects his commitment to the rule of law and its role in preserving the Union during the tumultuous years of the Civil War. His belief in justice and the equality of all men under the law guided many of his key decisions, including the Emancipation Proclamation and his commitment to passing the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery. For Lincoln, the law was a tool not only for maintaining order but also for advancing moral and social progress. His presidency was a time when the nation’s laws—and the country’s moral compass—were being tested, and Lincoln believed that respect for the law was essential to the survival of the nation.
In modern times, this quote continues to resonate in discussions about the education system, civic responsibility, and the role of the law in society. Lincoln’s vision calls for a society where the law is more than just a set of rules enforced by authorities—it is a shared value that is passed down through generations. In the face of political polarization and debates about law enforcement and justice reform, Lincoln’s words serve as a reminder of the need to build a culture of respect for the law, ensuring that it is applied fairly and equitably to all people. It underscores the idea that reverence for the law is not just a legal obligation but a moral duty that must be instilled at every level of society.
