Quote by C.S. Lewis
Talk to me about the truth of religion and I'll listen gladly. Talk to me about the duty of religion and I'll listen submissively. But don't come talking to me about the consolations of religion or I shall suspect that you don't understand. Unless, of course, you can literally believe all that stuff about family reunions 'on the further shore,' pictured in entirely earthly terms. But that is all unscriptural, all out of bad hymns and lithographs. There's not a word of it in the Bible. And it rings false. We know it couldn't be like that. Reality never repeats. The exact same thing is never taken away and given back. How well the Spiritualists bait their hook! 'Things on this side are not so different after all.' There are cigars in Heaven. For that is what we should all like. The happy past restored.
Summary
In this quote, C.S. Lewis expresses his skepticism towards the consolations of religion. He suggests that while he is open to discussions about the truth and duty of religion, discussions about heavenly rewards and reuniting with loved ones on the other side are not based on biblical teachings, appearing unrealistic and untrue. Lewis is critical of the idea that the afterlife would simply replicate earthly pleasures, asserting that reality does not repeat itself in exact same ways. He questions the relevance and authenticity of such consolations, implying that they do not align with his understanding of spirituality and faith.
By C.S. Lewis
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