Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
As men's prayers are a disease of the will, so are their creeds a disease of the intellect.
Summary
This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson suggests that both prayers and creeds can be seen as negative influences on the human psyche. The emphasis is on the idea that prayers - an expression of desires or wishes - stem from a weakness of the will, highlighting a reliance on external forces rather than taking proactive action. Similarly, religious creeds are viewed as limiting or constraining the intellectual capacity of individuals, as pre-established doctrines often restrict free thinking and critical analysis. Overall, Emerson argues that both prayers and creeds hinder personal growth and self-reliance.