Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Piety is not a goal but a means to attain through the purest peace of mind the highest culture.
Summary
This quote suggests that piety, or devotion to religious or moral principles, should not be seen as an end in itself, but rather as a pathway towards achieving the highest level of personal growth and enlightenment. It implies that by cultivating a pure state of mind and inner tranquility through piety, individuals can elevate their intellectual and spiritual capacities to a state of heightened culture. In essence, the quote suggests that piety serves as a tool for personal development, leading to greater understanding, wisdom, and refinement of one's character and beliefs.