Every religion is good that teaches man to be good; and I know of none that instructs him to be bad

Every religion is good that teaches man to be good; and I know of none that instructs him to be bad

Thomas Paine, a prominent figure in the American Revolution and a strong advocate for reason and human rights, believed in the power of religion to inspire goodness in people. His famous quote, "Every religion is good that teaches man to be good; and I know of none that instructs him to be bad," reflects his belief that the essence of religion lies in promoting moral values and ethical behavior.

Paine was a deist, believing in a higher power but rejecting organized religion and its dogmas. He saw religion as a personal and individual experience, rather than something that should be imposed on others. Paine believed that the true essence of religion lies in its ability to guide individuals towards being better human beings, promoting virtues such as compassion, kindness, and justice.