“In great contests each party claims to act in accordance with the will of God. Both may be, and one must be wrong.”
- 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
“In great contests each party claims to act in accordance with the will of God. Both may be, and one must be wrong.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Abraham Lincoln’s deep awareness of the moral complexities involved in major national conflicts, particularly the Civil War. Lincoln recognizes that in times of great division, both sides often claim divine sanction for their actions. While both parties believe they are justified, Lincoln points out that moral contradictions can exist when competing claims to righteousness are made, and ultimately one side must be wrong. This acknowledgment is not just about the theological implications but also about the importance of moral clarity in the face of widespread conflict. Lincoln’s humility and reflective nature are evident here, as he suggests that even when individuals or groups claim divine backing, human fallibility ensures that not every claim can be true.
Historically, Lincoln was keenly aware that both the Union and the Confederacy invoked divine support for their causes, which made the conflict especially complicated. For the Union, the war was often framed as a fight to preserve the nation and abolish slavery, which Lincoln saw as morally just. For the Confederacy, leaders justified their position by defending the institution of slavery, which they also claimed was sanctioned by God. This moral ambiguity created significant tension, and Lincoln’s quote reflects his understanding that, despite the piety on both sides, one cause was ultimately morally wrong.
In modern times, this quote serves as a timeless reminder that even when people or nations believe they are acting in the name of higher moral principles or divine will, it is crucial to critically evaluate the actual outcomes and ethical foundations of their actions. It is a warning against justifying harmful actions through religious or ideological rhetoric and encourages a deeper, more honest examination of what is truly just. The quote also touches on the idea that history often judges these moral struggles, revealing that even the most deeply held convictions can be wrong when they are at odds with fundamental human rights or ethical truths.
