7240. RELIGION, Interference with.—
No man complains of his neighbor for ill management of his affairs, for an error in
sowing his land, or marrying his daughter,
for consuming his substance in taverns, pulling
down, building, &c. In all these he has his liberty: but if he do not frequent the
church, or there conform to ceremonies, there
is an immediate uproar. The care of every
man's soul belongs to himself. But what if
he neglect the care of it? Well, what if he
neglect the care of his health or estate, which
more nearly relate to the State? Will the
magistrate make a law that he shall not be
poor or sick? Laws provide against injury
from others, but not from ourselves. God
Himself will not save men against their wills.—
Notes on Religion.
Ford ed., ii, 99.
(1776?)
