Quote by Ambrose Bierce, The Devil's Dict
PROPHECY, n. The art and practice of selling one's credibility for future delivery.
Summary
This quote sarcastically defines prophecy as a clever way of selling one's credibility by making predictions about the future. It suggests that prophets gain credibility by claiming to have insight into what will happen, even though the actual fulfillment of their predictions may occur long after their own lifetime. In a humorous tone, it highlights how prophecy can be perceived as a way for individuals to establish themselves as trusted authorities by presenting uncertain promises about the future.