“Toleration is the best religion.”
- February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885
- Born in France
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels and poems such as “Les Miserables” and “Notre-Dame de Paris,” he was a representative figure of French Romantic literature and had a worldwide influence.
Quote
“Toleration is the best religion.”
Explanation
Victor Hugo’s quote champions toleration as the highest virtue, suggesting that it transcends traditional religious practices and should be regarded as the ultimate principle of moral conduct. Toleration, in this context, is the ability to accept and respect the beliefs, values, and practices of others, even when they differ from one’s own. For Hugo, this idea is far superior to rigid religious dogmas, as it promotes peace, understanding, and coexistence among people of varying backgrounds and faiths. By placing toleration above other religious or moral codes, Hugo emphasizes the humanity and compassion that should guide our interactions with others.
Hugo, living in a time of significant political and religious turmoil in France, saw firsthand the destructive power of intolerance and sectarianism. The French Revolution and its aftermath were marked by violence and division in the name of competing ideologies and religions. Hugo’s call for toleration reflects a deep desire for social harmony and a recognition that diversity in thought, belief, and culture should be embraced rather than feared or suppressed.
In modern times, Hugo’s words resonate in our increasingly diverse global society. Religious and cultural differences continue to spark tension and conflict, yet the principle of toleration offers a path toward mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. This quote underscores the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and finding common ground despite our differences. It reminds us that the greatest virtue we can cultivate in today’s world is acceptance and understanding, which can foster a more inclusive and compassionate society.
