“I do not think I could myself be brought to support a man for office whom I knew to be an open enemy of, and scoffer at, religion.”
- 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
“I do not think I could myself be brought to support a man for office whom I knew to be an open enemy of, and scoffer at, religion.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln expresses his strong belief in the importance of religion as a moral and ethical foundation, particularly in the context of leadership. He states that he could not support someone for public office who was openly hostile to or dismissive of religion. This reflects Lincoln’s view that religion, while not necessarily tied to a specific denomination or church, was crucial for cultivating the moral integrity required in a leader. Lincoln’s comments suggest that a person who lacks respect for religious values might also lack the sense of moral responsibility and ethical grounding necessary to govern effectively, especially during a time of national crisis like the Civil War.
Historically, Lincoln was deeply influenced by religious principles, although he did not belong to any specific Christian denomination. His speeches often invoked divine will and God’s providence, and he expressed a deep sense of humility and dependence on God throughout his life. However, Lincoln was not the type to openly declare himself as a devout Christian in the conventional sense, and his religious views were more personal and philosophical than doctrinal. Despite this, his respect for religion as a moral force was clear, and he believed that those in positions of power should exhibit moral character that was consistent with the values espoused by religious teachings.
In the modern era, this quote touches on the ongoing debate about the role of religion in politics and the moral qualifications for leadership. While the United States has a separation of church and state, Lincoln’s view suggests that respect for religion—even in a pluralistic society—is important for cultivating moral leadership. This does not necessarily mean that leaders must adhere to any one faith, but rather that they should uphold the moral values that many religions promote, such as honesty, integrity, and compassion. In contemporary politics, this quote serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities that come with public office, and the importance of selecting leaders who demonstrate respect for the moral fabric of society, even if their personal beliefs may differ.
