When we do not know the truth of a thing, it is good that there should exist a common error which determines the mind of man, as, for example, the moon, to which is attributed the change of seasons, the progress of diseases, etc. For the chief malady of man is a restless curiosity about things which he cannot understand; and it is not so bad for him to be in error as to be curious to no purpose.

(Man,) the glory and the scandal of the universe.

To be mistaken in believing that the Christian religion is true is no great loss to anyone; but how dreadful to be mistaken in believing it to be false!

If you gain, you gain all; if you lose, you lose nothing. Wager, then, without hesitation, that He exists.

Too much pleasure disagrees with us. Too many concords are annoying in music; too many benefits irritate us; we wish to have the wherewithal to overpay our debts.

Having been unable to strengthen justice, we have justified strength.

There are only two kinds of men: the righteous who think they are sinners and the sinners who think they are righteous.