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Of Truth, Sir Francis Bacon, Analysis & Summary

Sir Francis Bacon, renowned for his profound worldly wisdom, offers a compelling analysis of the human condition in his essay "Of Truth." Although criticized by some, such as Alexander Pope, for his emphasis on worldly pursuits, Bacon's guidance in navigating critical situations remains invaluable. In this essay, he espouses the virtues of truth and provides practical advice on how to attain success even in the face of adversity.

While Bacon's philosophy often focuses on earthly benefits, it is important to note that he does not neglect the spiritual realm or the fruits of eternal life. In "Of Truth," he places great importance on the pursuit of truth itself, distinguishing it from falsehood and advocating for its consistent presence in all aspects of our lives. Drawing upon solid quotations, he presents a compelling case for the inherent value and necessity of truth.

Furthermore, Bacon directly addresses the skepticism of those who question the nature of truth. Rather than embellishing truth with excessive claims, he presents reality as it is, urging his readers to embrace honesty as the foundation of personal integrity. He emphasizes that only through a commitment to truth can one truly embody honesty, highlighting the inherent honor that comes from speaking the truth.

As we delve further into Bacon's essay, we will uncover the intricacies of his thoughts and the significance of his teachings on truth, which serve as a guiding light for navigating the complexities of life.

Unveiling the Essence of Truth: A Summary and Critical Analysis of "Of Truth" by Sir Francis Bacon

In his thought-provoking essay, "Of Truth," Sir Francis Bacon initiates the discourse by alluding to the historical figure of Pilate, the Ancient Roman Governor. Pilate's failure to fully comprehend and analyze the truth led him to make a critical decision without patiently awaiting its revelation. Bacon suggests that had Pilate possessed a deeper understanding of the truth, he might have refrained from passing judgment on the crucifixion of Christ.

Turning his attention to skeptical minds, Bacon contemplates whether Pilate himself exhibited such skepticism. He acknowledges the existence of individuals who possess wavering beliefs, constantly shifting their perspectives. These individuals perceive steadfast beliefs as a form of mental enslavement and pride themselves on their free-thinking nature. These echoes of skepticism can still be found in the world today, despite the passage of time and the decline of ancient schools of skeptical philosophy.

Bacon's insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of truth and belief, challenging readers to reflect on the nature of certainty and the influence of skepticism in shaping human thought. By delving into the depths of skepticism and its impact on our perception of truth, Bacon encourages us to critically examine our own beliefs and biases.

As we delve further into Bacon's essay, we will explore his nuanced perspectives on truth and its implications for human understanding, ultimately unraveling the multifaceted nature of truth itself.

The Veil of Untruth: Reasons for Withholding the Truth

The reluctance to speak the truth can be attributed to various underlying factors. Sir Francis Bacon delves into this complex phenomenon, offering a critical analysis of the reasons behind people's aversion to truth. One prominent explanation lies in the arduous and time-consuming nature of truth discovery. Bacon's astute observation finds resonance in real-life examples, such as the extensive legal processes that courts undertake to uncover the truth in countless cases. Years of diligent examination and scrutiny are necessary to discern who is truly speaking the truth.

Intriguingly, both the plaintiff and defendant passionately strive to prove their respective claims, underscoring the substantial effort and time required in the pursuit of truth. Bacon's assertion gains credibility as he highlights the challenging nature of unearthing the truth and the inherent complexities surrounding it.

A second reason, as postulated by Bacon, revolves around the inherent difficulty in accepting the truth once it is revealed. People often find it hard to digest and assimilate the truth into their worldview. This hesitance to embrace the truth can be attributed to various psychological and cognitive factors, underscoring the depth of human complexity and the innate resistance to transformative truths.

Bacon also ponders the paradoxical allure of lies and their appeal to human beings. He acknowledges that lies possess a certain magnetic pull, capturing the attention and interest of individuals. Yet, he expresses perplexity over why people would fabricate falsehoods merely for the sake of deceit. While understanding the motives behind poets and traders who employ lies for pleasure or profit, the concept of lying for its own sake remains an enigma to Bacon, challenging the very essence of human behavior.

In this profound exploration of truth and deception, Bacon presents a compelling analysis of the intricate web of motives and complexities that underlie the reluctance to embrace and speak the truth.

The Dichotomy of Truth and Lie: A Delicate Balance

Sir Francis Bacon explores the contrasting nature of truth and lies, shedding light on the allure and appeal of deception. Drawing upon a vivid real-life analogy, Bacon evokes the imagery of a spectacle presented under different lighting conditions. He posits that while the same show in broad daylight appears as it is, the introduction of candlelight transforms it into a captivating experience that entices a larger audience and provides pleasure. Similarly, lies possess an attractive facade, adorned with beauty and charm, captivating the minds of individuals.

Furthermore, Bacon delves into the intricate relationship between truth and lies. He muses that if the truth were blended with a lie, it would still possess the power to delight. This observation highlights the complex interplay between the two, suggesting that the allure of falsehoods can permeate even when intertwined with elements of truth.

Intriguingly, Bacon delves into the human propensity for constructing false beliefs, judgments, and opinions. These self-created constructs provide individuals with hope and a peculiar form of pleasure. Were these illusions to be stripped away, Bacon suggests that individuals would find themselves in a state of misery, deprived of the comforting illusions that afford them solace and gratification.

In this contemplation of truth and lies, Bacon offers a nuanced understanding of their intertwined existence, illuminating the seductive nature of deception and the delicate balance between truth and falsehood that shapes human perceptions and experiences.

The Paradox of Poetry: A Delicate Deception

Sir Francis Bacon delves into the controversial realm of poetry, acknowledging the accusations leveled against it by early writers of the church who deemed it as a dangerous elixir, aptly labeled as the "devil's wine." These writers argued that poetry, with its embellishments and flights of fancy, was inherently deceitful and led individuals astray into a realm of imagination. While Bacon acknowledges the inherent deceptive nature of poetry, he refutes the notion that it is inherently harmful.

Bacon acknowledges that poetry indeed presents a form of artistic falsehood, weaving tales that deviate from reality. However, he argues that the harm lies not in the art form itself, but rather in the lasting impact of lies on the human psyche. He categorizes lies into two distinct types: those that are short-lived and those that linger in the mind, difficult to forget. In Bacon's view, poetry falls into the former category. The lies presented within poetic verses may captivate and entrance momentarily, but they are transient in their influence. As a result, they do not inflict lasting harm upon individuals.

By distinguishing between the transient nature of poetic falsehoods and the enduring impact of lies that embed themselves within the human mind, Bacon challenges the notion that poetry is inherently harmful. He recognizes the allure of poetic deception, yet contends that its fleeting nature ultimately prevents it from causing lasting damage.

In this analysis, Bacon engages with the paradoxical nature of poetry, acknowledging its deceptive qualities while disputing the assertion that it is fundamentally detrimental to the human experience.

The Power of Truth: Humbling Pride

Sir Francis Bacon highlights the profound significance of truth, emphasizing its role in guiding human decision-making and illuminating the depths of our understanding. Drawing upon the notion of light as the initial creation of God, Bacon emphasizes the inherent connection between truth and enlightenment.

Bacon urges individuals to rely upon their rational faculties when making decisions, emphasizing the importance of basing one's actions on truth. He cites the words of Lucretius, who proclaims that the realization of truth is the pinnacle of human pleasure. Through this realization, one becomes acutely aware of the falsehoods that have clouded their beliefs and the frivolous hopes that once gripped them. Truth, in its essence, has the power to dismantle the veils of ignorance and arrogance.

By recognizing and embracing the truth, individuals are humbled and liberated from the shackles of pride. The revelation of truth reveals the fallibility of one's own judgments and dispels illusions of grandeur, fostering a sense of humility and compassion.

In this perspective, Bacon underscores the transformative potential of truth, highlighting its capacity to humble pride and open the path to self-awareness and empathy.

The Significance of Truth: Honoring the Virtuous

Sir Francis Bacon's profound exploration of truth in "Of Truth" highlights its immense significance in various aspects of life. Through a critical analysis of his ideas, we come to recognize the inherent worth of truth and the detrimental consequences of falsehood.

Bacon asserts that falsehood brings disgrace, while truth bestows honor. Even those who are inclined to lie are aware of the value and importance of truth. The recognition of truth extends beyond the realms of theology and philosophy; it permeates every facet of human existence.

Bacon references Montaigne, who remarks that a liar may exhibit bravery in the face of God but cowardice in their interactions with fellow humans. By engaging in falsehood, a liar directly challenges the divine. Despite their awareness of the impending judgment they will face on the Day of Judgment, they persist in promoting deception. This audacity to willingly endure eternal punishment displays a twisted form of courage.

In the concluding part of the essay, Bacon introduces a moral dimension, seeking to persuade and compel his readers to embrace truthfulness. He presents the "fear of doomsday" as a powerful motivator. According to Bacon, liars will ultimately face punishment on the Day of Judgment.

Thus, Bacon underscores the significance of truth, not only as a moral imperative but also as a means to honor and virtuous living, reminding individuals of the consequences they will face for their actions in the eternal realm.

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Literary Yog

Of Truth by Francis Bacon: Explained in Easy Language

We have discussed a summary, line-by-line explanation, and the theme of the essay in the following paragraphs, all explained in simple language.

Table of Contents

Of Truth Summary

Francis Bacon observes a common human tendency to favor lies over truth. For instance, Pilate recognized Christ’s innocence but felt pressured to condemn him. It implies sticking to truth is hard, whereas holding lies carries no risk and offers the flexibility to change one’s point of view at will.

Man loves lies because they are attractive and change their color, similar to a diamond or carbuncle. Truth is unchanging and simple, much like a pearl. Despite the advantage of lies, truth is valuable.

Bacon agrees lies can give temporary relief and prevent sadness and hopelessness. Some forms of lies, like poetry, are harmless as their effect is temporary. However, fixed beliefs are harmful.

Bacon asserts the pursuit of truth is man’s supreme virtue. He believes understanding, searching, and living by truth is an achievement and satisfaction.

Honesty in everyday conversation is also necessary for a virtuous life. While it is beneficial, falsehood is shameful and harmful to individuals and society.

Line By Line Explanation 

Francis Bacon begins the essay by referring to the Christ’s trial with a slight modification.

The Jewish chief priests and elders took Jesus to Pilate. Pilate asked Jesus if he was the King of the Jews. Jesus declared he was a king and came to bear witness to the world ( John 18:37 ). Having heard his declaration, Pilate asked him what the truth was ( John 18:38 ).

The Roman governor went outside and told the Jews that he found Jesus had done nothing wrong. Pilate was aware of Jesus’ innocence. Therefore, he tried to free Jesus by using a Passover tradition where he could release a prisoner, and questioned the crowd about Jesus’ supposed crimes.

Even though Pilate knew Jesus was innocent, he did not want to disappoint the Jewish crowd. Therefore, he ordered to crucify Christ. His decision regarding implies a reluctance to stand by the truth.

Bacon’s choice to frame Pilate’s question as “jesting” (Bacon 61) or joking could highlight a broader critique of how people prioritize convenience over upholding truth. People are often not ready to confront the consequences of admitting the truth.

Some people ignore truth and consider a fixed belief a bondage to the free will of thinking and action. They want to think and act freely. It is important to note what we believe is not truth. Bacon probably uses words belief and truth interchangeably.

It is risky to speak the truth, especially when it challenges predominant belief. For example, Galileo faced persecution for asserting heliocentric truth, which means the Earth goes around the Sun.

It requires courage. Therefore, most people prefer to keep quiet to avoid potential risks.

Pilate’s decision to wash his hands publicly and declare himself free of Christ’s blood proves his awareness of the committed injustice. It also suggests his attempt to avert himself from moral responsibility.

Bacon draws a similarity between Pilate and the human tendency to avoid the price of committing to the truth. Pilate was afraid to stand up for the truth because he did not want to lose the support of the Jews.

Bacon mentions that some groups of Greek philosophers had a keen interest in seeking the truth. He probably refers to the “Sceptics” and the “New (or third) Academy” (Pitcher 61n4).

They believed it was hard for people to know the truth. Some intellectuals still exist, but they are not as passionate about it as the Greeks were.

Reasons for Ignoring Truth

Bacon dives into why people prefer falsehood. He argues people ignore truth not because finding truth is a laborious process nor it limits their thoughts. Instead, people lie because one naturally loves to lie. 

Bacon refers to the Greek satirist Lucian. In  Lover of Lies,  Tychiades asks his friend Philokles why man lies even when it does not bring them joy like poets or profit like merchants. He questions why a man prefers lying for the sake of it.

For example, the speaker boasts before the sun in John Donne’s poem “ The Sun Rising ”. It amuses the poet and creates a space where he can imaginatively claim power over the mighty sun. Similarly, a merchant or a company might lie for profit. Lucian suggests that beyond poetry or trade, some lie simply for the lie itself. 

Though Bacon does not explain the reasons, here are some probable reasons. 

First, Albert Bandura’s social cognitive theory explains that children learn a behavior, including lying, either by direct experience or observing others. If they observe no consequences for lying, they might learn it is acceptable.

Second, they like to avoid repercussions of being truthful, which we have discussed above.

Third, psychologically, lying can be a defense mechanism to avoid unpleasant situations and maintain one’s subjective reality.

Differences between Truth and Lies

Bacon contrasts truth and lies by comparing them to clear daylight and flattering candlelight. Daylight does not show the masks, mummeries and triumphs of the world as elegantly as candlelight does on stage. 

A masque and mummery are an early form of dramatic performance. 

The soft glow of candlelight can beautify a scene and make things more attractive than they are. This analogy suggests truth shows things as they are and offers an unfiltered view of reality. On the other hand, lies distort perception and provide a filtered view of the truth. 

Bacon gives another analogy between pearl and diamond to differentiate truth and falsity. Truth is like a pearl that is constant and unaffected by light conditions. A diamond or carbuncle changes its appearance in various lighting conditions and attracts people.

The comparison implies that while truth is invaluable, it lacks the glamour of lies. They often seem more appealing because of their ability to deceive. Consequently, people prioritize flashy things such as lies over simplicity and honesty.

Bacon poses a critical question about the role of lies in life. Mind operates on a pleasure principle, seeking joy and avoiding pain. The challenges of life drive us to create fantasies.

Though these falsehoods are lies, they offer comfort and hope, making life bearable. If one removes all these pointless opinions, flattering hopes, false valuations, imaginations, life would be empty and disillusioned.

For example, in the story “ The Free Radio ,” the protagonist Ramani holds to the false hope of receiving a free radio and becoming a hero, which keeps him spirited despite his poverty.

It raises a question: What kind of falsehood should we allow in our perception of reality?

The section below aims to answer this.

Light-Hearted Lies vs. Serious Lies

Poetry is a light-hearted lie and harmless, as its effects are temporary. However, Philosophers like Plato have been skeptical about poetry, and excluded poets from his ideal  Republic . They often associate poetry with lies. So, St Jerome criticized poetry and said that poetry is the “food of devils” (Pitcher 62n9).

Though it distracts the readers from reality by firing up their imagination, it does not last long. Instead of poetry, those deep-rooted lies are harmful. For instance, Ramani’s firm faith in becoming a film star leads him to sell his only livelihood: his rickshaw.

Lies deeply influence one’s perceptions and actions. It is seductive and ultimately harmful.

The Value of Truth 

On the other hand, pursuing truth brings lasting benefits. Similar to other essays, such as ‘ Of Studies ,’ ‘ Of Friendship ,’ and ‘ Of Marriage and Single Life ,’ where Bacon discusses the benefits of specific topics, in this essay, he also explores the advantages of being truthful.

Truth is self-evident and self-validating; it does not require external validation for its worth. Searching for, understanding, and believing in truth is profoundly rewarding. 

Bacon likens this quest to a romantic relationship. One seeks to know a person deeply, feel the presence of the other, and enjoy being with the person in a romantic pursuit. Similarly, engaging with truth in these ways enriches our lives. 

It emphasizes that just as relationships bring joy and fulfillment, so does the pursuit of truth make one’s understanding and experience of the world deep and meaningful. 

However, I think embracing truth can be challenging. For instance, Galileo’s opposition shows how hard following truth can be, especially when they are against commonly accepted beliefs. Unlike the joy of love, seeking truth often leads to difficult discoveries that demand courage to face.

Nevertheless, seeking truth is a fundamental human nature and a divine intention. He refers to Genesis 1:3 and 1:27 to justify his point (Pitcher 62n10).  

God first created light that lets us see. The last thing he created was the reason. God also gave light to the formless earth and intellectual insight and spiritual enlightenment to humans.

The Benefit of Truth

Knowing oneself is the ultimate aim of man. Another benefit of truth is the one who knows oneself. The person knows everyone because all are one and connected.

Bacon paraphrases the first ten lines of Book II of Lucretius’s  On the Nature of Things  as an example. It mentions watching jerking ships during a storm from the shore and a battle from a castle window are pleasant experiences (Pitcher 62n11).

It is not about enjoying the suffering of others rather realizing one is safe from those troubles.

Witnessing these situations can be a metaphor for observing difficulties from a safe distance. The distance allows viewers to notice these situations safely without being directly involved.

However, the pleasure of viewing things on the downhill from a high hill is incomparable. One can see things clearly down the valley. The metaphorical hill represents a higher level of understanding. From this ideal state, one can understand the mistakes, doubts, and mental disturbances of those below the level.

The state of enlightenment is calm and clear, like a serene air. The high ground of truth is better than the physical viewpoints because of the superiority of intellectual insight over mere physical advantage.

The advantageous position allows one to observe and understand life challenges and the human condition. Therefore, Bacon suggests one should observe others with compassion rather than a sense of pride. Living with kindness towards others, trusting in the divine, and being guided by truth is like living in paradise on earth.

So, it highlights the importance of wisdom, which is attainable through the path of truth.

Benefits of Truth in Everyday Life

In daily interactions, following the path of truth is also necessary. Being open and honest is a noble aspect of human nature. While honesty is universally cherished, lies degrade human dignity. 

It might make the metalwork seem valuable but degrades its value. It suggests that though deceit might offer short-term advantages, it ultimately degrades one’s character.

Taking dishonest paths is akin to the movement of a snake. It needs the support of its belly to move. A lie also requires the help of another lie to justify it. 

This imagery reflects the negative symbolism of the serpent in Christianity. Christians consider snakes to be evil because Satan takes the form of a serpent and instigates Eve to eat the apple.

No other vice makes a person feel as ashamed as being caught lying and betraying trust. Deceit is the ultimate vice, bringing shame and mistrust.

The Moral Implications of Lying 

Montaigne ponders why calling someone a liar is disgraceful. Bacon cites a statement from “Of Giving the lie” Essays II 18, where Montaigne quotes Plutarch (Pitcher 63n14).

To him, lying is akin to defying God while fearing the judgment of humans. A liar has no courage before another man, and one takes it for granted that lying would not affect the judgment day. 

The evil of lying and breaking trust is so great that it could be the final warning for God to judge humanity. Humanity will feel the repercussions of telling lies on the day of Doomsday when God will judge humanity. 

Bacon cites Luke 18:8, emphasizing that when Christ returns to the earth, he shall not find faith in humanity. He believes the world will be full of liars, according to Pitcher (63n15).

It argues that lying is a moral wrong with personal and societal consequences. It makes one internally corrupted and weakens human relationships. Lies also disrespect divine principles and likely invoke divine judgment. 

Therefore, honesty is crucial for both moral integrity and the foundation of society.

What is the main idea of the essay “Of Truth”?

The central idea of the essay is the value and benefits of truthfulness. Truth has value, and there are benefits to being truthful. Lies might offer temporary pleasure. However, truth has a deep and lasting significance for individuals. We have discussed a summary, line-by-line explanation, and the theme of the essay in the following paragraphs, all explained in simple language.

What is the writing style of Francis Bacon in “Of Truth”?

Bacon uses an aphoristic style in the essay. An aphoristic style means conveying complex and deep ideas in just a few words. Bacon uses this method in his essays, including “Of Truth”, “ Of Love ”, “Of Studies”, and others. For instance, the statement from “Of Truth”, “But it is not only the difficulty and labor, which men take in finding out the truth, nor again, that when it is found, it imposes upon men’s thoughts, that doth bring lies in favor; but a natural, though corrupt love, of the lie itself,’ is aphoristic. It captures human nature and our relationship with truth and falsehood and their natural inclination towards falsehood in a brief and thought-provoking manner.

When was “Of Truth” published?

“Of Truth” appeared in the later edition of the essay collection titled  Essays or Counsels, Civil and Moral  in 1625, although the collection was first published in 1597.

• Bacon, Francis. “Of Truth.” Francis Bacon: The Essays , edited by John Pitcher, Penguin Books, 1985, pp. 61-63.
• Bandura, Albert. “Social Cognitive theory of Mass Communications.” Media effects: Advances in theory and Research , edited by J. Bryant and D. Zillman,NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, 2001, pp. 121-153.
• Valkenburg, Patti M., and Jessica Taylor Piotrowski. Plugged In: How Media Attract and Affect Youth , Yale University Press, 2017.

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The Works of Francis Bacon/Volume 1/Essays/Of Truth

I. OF TRUTH.

What is truth? said jesting Pilate; and would not stay for an answer. Certainly there be that delight in giddiness; and count it a bondage to fix a belief; affecting free-will in thinking, as well as in acting. And though the sects of philosophers of that kind be gone, yet there remain certain discoursive wits, which are of the same veins, though there be not so much blood in them as was in those of the ancients. But it is not only the difficulty and labour which men take in finding out of truth, nor again, that when it is found, it imposeth upon men’s thoughts, that doth bring lies in favour, but a natural though corrupt love of the lie itself. One of the later schools of the Grecians examineth the matter, and is at a stand to think what should be in it, that men should love lies; where neither they make for pleasure, as with poet; nor for advantage, as with the merchant, but for the lie’s sake. But I cannot tell: this same truth is a naked and open daylight, that doth not show the masks, and mummeries, and triumphs of the world, half so stately and daintily as candlelights. Truth may perhaps come to the price of a pearl, that showeth best by day, but it will not rise to the price of a diamond or carbuncle, that showeth best in varied lights. A mixture of a lie doth ever add pleasure. Doth any man doubt, that if there were taken out of men’s minds, vain opinions, flattering hopes, false valuations, imaginations as one would, and the like, but it would leave the minds of a number of men, poor shrunken things, full of melancholy and indisposition, and unpleasing to themselves? One of the fathers, in great severity, called poesy “vinum dæmonum,”; because it filleth the imagination, and yet it is but with the shadow of a lie. But it is not the lie that passeth through the mind, but the lie that sinketh in, and settleth in it, that doth the hurt, such as we spake of before. But howsoever these things are thus in men’s depraved judgments and affections, yet truth, which only doth judge itself, teacheth, that the inquiry of truth, which is the love-making, or wooing of it, the knowledge of truth, which is the presence of it, and the belief of truth, which is the enjoying of it, is the sovereign good of human nature. The first creature of God, in the works of the days, was the light of the sense: the last was the light of reason; and his Sabbath work ever since, is the illumination of his Spirit. First, he breathed light upon the face of the matter, or chaos; then he breathed light into the face of man; and still he breatheth and inspireth light into the face of his chosen. The poet that beautified the sect, that was otherwise inferior to the rest, saith yet excellently well: “It is a pleasure to stand upon the shore, and to see ships tossed upon the sea: a pleasure to stand in the window of a castle, and to see a battle, and the adventures thereof below: but no pleasure is comparable to the standing upon the vantage ground of truth, (a hill not to be commanded, and where the air is always clear and serene,) and to see the errors, and wanderings, and mists, and tempests in the vale below:” so always that this prospect be with pity, and not with swelling or pride. Certainly, it is heaven upon earth, to have a man’s mind move in charity, rest in providence, and turn upon the poles of truth.

To pass from theological and philosophical truth, to the truth of civil business; it will be acknowledged even by those that practise it not, that clean and round dealing is the honour of man’s nature, and that mixture of falsehood is like alloy in coin of gold and silver, which may make the metal work the better, but it embaseth it. For these winding and crooked courses are the goings of the serpent; which goeth basely upon the belly, and not upon the feet. There is no vice that doth so cover a man with shame as to be found false and perfidious; and therefore Montaigne saith prettily, when he inquired the reason, why the word of the lie should be such a disgrace, and such an odious charge, saith he, “If it be well weighed, to say that a man lieth, is as much as to say, that he is brave towards God, and a coward towards men. For a lie faces God, and shrinks from man.” Surely the wickedness of falsehood and breach of faith cannot possibly be so highly expressed, as in that it shall be the last peal to call the judgments of God upon the generations of men: it being foretold, that when “Christ cometh,” he shall not “find faith upon the earth.”

This work was published before January 1, 1929, and is in the public domain worldwide because the author died at least 100 years ago.

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