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They build not castles in the air who would build churches on earth; and though they leave no such structures here, may lay good foundations in heaven.
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“They build not castles in the air who would build churches on earth; and though they leave no such structures here, may lay good foundations in heaven.”

Thomas Browne

Source
A Letter to a Friend
Date
1690
Meaning

Meaning of “They build not castles in the air who…”

Browne praises charitable intention by arguing that even unrealized plans for public good can carry moral significance within his Christian framework.

Source context

Where does it come from?

A Letter to a Friend, represented by Project Gutenberg #586. The sentence follows Browne’s description of his deceased friend’s desire for public and lasting charities. Its image of foundations in heaven is explicitly Christian consolation and should not be detached into a secular factual promise about charitable intentions.

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Themes

Ideas connected with this quotation

Helping OthersServiceThought-Provoking Quotes That Invite ReflectionGenerosityGood DeedsReligionSpiritual
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“I believe in the equality of man, and I believe that religious duties consist in doing justice, loving mercy, and endeavouring to make our fellow-creatures happy.”

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Meaning & context

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Source details

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Source details

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Source details

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Source details

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