Quotation by

William Robertson Smith

In better times the religion of the tribe or state has nothing in common with the private and foreign superstitions or magical rites that savage terror may dictate to the individual.

Religion

Understanding this quote AI Analysis

William Robertson Smith is saying that during peaceful periods, the official religion of a community or nation is distinct and separate from the personal, irrational fears or magical beliefs that individuals might hold. He highlights that these private superstitions arise from individual fear, unlike the collective and organized faith practiced by the group.

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