I ask no risen dust to teach me immortality; I am conscious of eternal life

I ask no risen dust to teach me immortality; I am conscious of eternal life

Theodore Parker was a prominent American Transcendentalist and Unitarian minister who lived in the 19th century. He was known for his progressive views on social issues such as abolitionism, women's rights, and education reform. Parker was also a strong advocate for religious freedom and the idea of personal immortality.

The quote “I ask no risen dust to teach me immortality; I am conscious of eternal life” reflects Parker's belief in the inherent divinity of the human soul. He rejected the traditional Christian notion of resurrection and instead emphasized the idea that each individual possesses an eternal essence that transcends physical death. For Parker, immortality was not something to be earned or bestowed upon by a higher power, but rather a fundamental aspect of human existence.

Parker's concept of eternal life was closely tied to his belief in the power of the human spirit to create positive change in the world. He saw each person as a unique expression of the divine, capable of making a meaningful impact on society through their actions and beliefs. By recognizing the eternal nature of the soul, Parker believed that individuals could tap into a source of inner strength and wisdom that would guide them in their quest for justice and truth.