Quote by Michel de Montaigne
Lying is a terrible vice, it testifies that one despises God, but fears men.
Summary
This quote portrays lying as a grave wrongdoing, suggesting that it reflects a lack of respect for God but an excessive concern for the opinions of others. It emphasizes that a person who engages in deceit exhibits a disregard for divine principles, indicating a lack of reverence for higher moral values. At the same time, it implies that liars are motivated by the fear of social judgment or punishment, demonstrating a prioritization of human perception over their own ethical responsibilities. Overall, the quote highlights the importance of honesty as a virtue that stems from both reverence for God and moral courage.