Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
If I made laws for Shakers or a school, I should gazette every Saturday all the words they were wont to use in reporting religious experience, as spiritual life, God, soul, cross, etc., and if they could not find new ones next week, they might remain silent.
Summary
This quote highlights the author's cynicism towards the repetitive and clichéd language used in religious discourse. The author suggests that if laws were enacted for certain groups, such as the Shakers or a school, they should be required to publish a list of commonly used words related to religious experiences. The intention behind this would be to encourage individuals to seek fresh and personal expressions to communicate their spiritual ideas, promoting a deeper and more authentic understanding of religion and spiritual life.