But, strictly speaking, this mythology was no essential part of ancient religion — William Robertson Smith
Even the highest forms of sacrificial worship present much that is repulsive to modern ideas — William Robertson Smith
The dissolution of the nation destroys the national religion, and dethrones the national deity. — William Robertson Smith
The God can no more exist without his people than the nation without its God. — William Robertson Smith
The God, it would appear, was frequently thought of as the physical progenitor or first father of his people. — William Robertson Smith
The myths connected with individual sanctuaries and ceremonies were merely part of the apparatus of the worship; — William Robertson Smith
As a rule the myth is no explanation of the origin of the ritual to any one who does not believe. — William Robertson Smith
Religion did not exist for the saving of souls but for the preservation and welfare of society — William Robertson Smith
But we must not forget… this ritual expressed… certain ideas which lie at the very root of true religion — William Robertson Smith
In all the antique religions, mythology takes the place of dogma; that is, the sacred lore of priests and people… — William Robertson Smith