“I pray to God that I shall not live one hour after I have thought of using deception.”
- September 7, 1533 – March 24, 1603
- English
- Queen of England and Ireland, Monarch
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Quote
“I pray to God that I shall not live one hour after I have thought of using deception.”
Explanation
In this solemn vow, Elizabeth I declares a profound commitment to honesty and moral integrity, stating that she would rather die than even entertain the thought of deceit. The phrase “not live one hour” highlights the severity of her pledge, suggesting that deception is so contrary to her principles that life would no longer be worth living were she to violate them. This reflects her desire to be seen not only as a wise ruler, but also as one who governs with truth and righteousness.
Elizabeth ruled in an age rife with diplomatic intrigue, religious manipulation, and political betrayal, yet she often portrayed herself as a monarch above such tactics. This quote may have served as a public affirmation of her sincerity, intended to reassure her subjects and court that her decisions were not driven by duplicity, but by conscience and justice. It also underscores her awareness that a ruler’s credibility is foundational to lasting authority.
Today, this quote continues to resonate as a powerful statement of ethical leadership and personal accountability. In a world where trust in institutions and leaders is often fragile, Elizabeth’s words remind us that integrity must be the foundation of both public and private conduct. It challenges all individuals—especially those in power—to live by principles so strongly held that even the thought of violating them would be intolerable.
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