Gina Johnson
God's justice cannot sleep forever is a phrase attributed to Thomas Jefferson in his 1782 book, Notes on the State of Virginia. The full quote is: I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever. The phrase is a reflection on the idea that God's justice will eventually be awakened and unleashed on the nation, and it invites the question of when this will happen. The phrase has been referenced by various columnists, commentators, and officials following the murder of George Floyd, asking whether this was an inflection point that would lead to a change in the country's trajectory.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Author | Thomas Jefferson |
| Year | 1782 |
| Work | Notes on the State of Virginia |
| Theme | Social injustice |
| Context | Murder of George Floyd |
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What You'll Learn
Thomas Jefferson's stance on slavery
Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States, had a complex and often contradictory stance on slavery. On one hand, Jefferson wrote that "all men are created equal" in the Declaration of Independence, suggesting a belief in the inherent equality of all people, regardless of race. However, he also owned over 600 slaves during his adult life and profited directly from the institution of slavery.
Jefferson's views on slavery were influenced by his political career and the preservation of the political union of the states. He believed that slavery was a moral depravity and a hideous blot on the new American nation. He also thought that slavery was contrary to the laws of nature, which decreed that everyone had a right to personal liberty. In his book "Notes on the State of Virginia", Jefferson wrote about the horrific effects of slavery on both Black and white people and predicted that failure to end slavery would lead to disastrous consequences.
However, Jefferson's actions often contradicted his stated beliefs. While he claimed to support gradual emancipation, he declined to support laws that would have moved towards that goal. He also believed that people of African descent were biologically inferior to whites and could never live alongside them in peace. This belief led to his public position that ending slavery was inconceivable, at least in the present.
Jefferson's fear of civil unrest between whites and former slaves also influenced his actions. He freed only two slaves during his lifetime, and five others were freed after his death. His will directed that his assets be used to free and educate slaves, but he pleaded an inability to carry out the terms due to his advanced age and legal complexities.
In summary, Thomas Jefferson's stance on slavery was inconsistent and often influenced by political considerations. While he publicly opposed slavery and recognized its negative impact, he also benefited from it and failed to take decisive action towards its abolition.
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God's justice as a revolution of the wheel of fortune
Thomas Jefferson, in his 1782 "Notes on the State of Virginia", wrote:
> Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever... that considering numbers, nature and natural means only, a revolution of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of situation, is among possible events: that it may become probable by supernatural interference!
The "revolution of the wheel of fortune" in this context refers to a potential future upheaval or reversal of fortunes, brought about by divine intervention to correct injustices. Jefferson, whose relationship with slavery was "fraught and regrettable", took an anti-slavery stance in his early years, including in his writing of the Declaration of Independence. In the above quote, he expresses his fear that the slave owners of Virginia, by failing to work on their own plantations, were tempting fate and risking a "revolution of the wheel of fortune" that would see the slaves rise up and overthrow their subjugators.
Jefferson's words reflect a belief in the eventual triumph of justice, even if it takes a long time to come about. This idea of the "wheels of justice" turning slowly but grinding exceedingly fine is an ancient one, paraphrased from a Greek proverb referenced by Plutarch in the first century AD.
The concept of God's justice as a "revolution of the wheel of fortune" implies a turning of the tides, a correction of imbalances, and a restoration of that which is just and natural. It suggests that God's justice, though it may seem dormant, is ever-turning, and will eventually right the wrongs of the world.
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God's justice as a supernatural interference
The phrase "God's justice cannot sleep forever" is attributed to Thomas Jefferson in his 1782 "Notes on the State of Virginia". The full quote is:
> "Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever: that considering numbers, nature and natural means only, a revolution of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of situation, is among possible events: that it may become probable by supernatural interference!"
The quote reflects Jefferson's concerns about the future of his country and the potential for God's justice to bring about a revolution or significant change. He suggests that God's justice may be dormant or inactive for a period, but it cannot remain that way indefinitely. The idea of "supernatural interference" implies that God's justice may manifest through unexpected or extraordinary means, beyond the realm of natural or human agency.
In a broader context, the concept of God's justice as a form of supernatural interference suggests that divine intervention can bring about a correction or restoration of moral order. This idea is often associated with the belief in a higher power or deity who upholds principles of righteousness and fairness. In religious traditions, God's justice may be seen as a corrective force that intervenes in human affairs to punish wrongdoing, reward virtue, or restore balance to the world.
The notion of God's justice as supernatural interference can be found in various religious texts and doctrines. For example, in Christianity, the concept of divine judgment and intervention is prevalent in the Bible, with God often depicted as a just and righteous ruler who intervenes in human history to punish evil and uphold righteousness. Similarly, in Islam, the concept of "Qadar" or divine decree includes the belief in God's justice and intervention in the affairs of the world.
In popular culture, the portrayal of God's justice as supernatural interference can be seen in works of fiction, such as the "Supernatural" franchise, where God is a central character and often interferes in the lives of the protagonists, Sam and Dean Winchester.
Overall, the idea of God's justice as a form of supernatural interference reflects a belief in a higher power that can intervene in the world to correct injustices, punish wrongdoing, or bring about significant change. It highlights the potential for divine intervention to shape the course of human affairs and influence the destiny of nations.
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God's justice as a force that awakens
The concept of God's justice as a force that awakens is a powerful one, and it has been a source of reflection and contemplation for many, including Thomas Jefferson, who wrote in his "Notes on the State of Virginia" in 1782:
> "Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever… that considering numbers, nature and natural means only, a revolution of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of situation, is among possible events: that it may become probable by supernatural interference!"
Jefferson's words highlight the idea that God's justice, though it may appear dormant or sleeping, will eventually awaken. This awakening is seen as a terrifying and loud clamor that will right the wrongs and injustices of the past. It is a reminder that God's justice is not passive but active, and it will bring about a transformation in the trajectory of a nation.
The Bible also alludes to the idea of God's justice awakening. Psalms 44:23 says, "Awake, Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever." Here, the psalmist is calling upon God to awaken and take action, recognizing that God's justice is not static but can be stirred into motion.
Additionally, Psalms 3:5-6 and 4:8 reinforce the trust in God's protective power, stating, "I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side" and "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety." These verses emphasize that God's justice is not dormant but actively safeguarding his people, even as they sleep.
The notion of God's justice awakening serves as a reminder that God is always watching and working, even when it seems that injustice prevails. It is a call to trust in God's timing and power, knowing that He will ultimately bring about justice and set things right. This concept encourages people to reflect on their own actions and the state of their nation, striving to align themselves with God's justice and prevent the need for a terrifying awakening.
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God's justice as a force that watches over people
The concept of God's justice as a force that watches over people is a powerful one, and it has been a source of comfort, guidance, and reflection for many. God's justice is often seen as a reflection of His holiness and righteousness, setting the standard for what is right and just.
In the Bible, God's justice is portrayed as a force that actively intervenes in the world to correct wrongs and protect the vulnerable. For instance, in 2 Samuel 12:1-14, King David's outrage at the rich man taking the poor man's lamb is assuaged by Nathan's story, which reveals David's own injustice. Here, God's justice serves as a moral compass, guiding people towards righteousness.
The idea that "God's justice cannot sleep forever" suggests that God's justice is ever-watchful, even if it is not always immediately apparent. This phrase, attributed to Thomas Jefferson in his "Notes on the State of Virginia" from 1782, reflects a belief in God's eventual intervention to right the wrongs of humanity. Jefferson's words, "I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that His justice will not sleep forever," express a fear that the injustices of his time, such as slavery and racial inequality, would one day be met with God's judgment.
The notion of God's justice as an ever-present force watching over humanity is a recurring theme in Christian theology. It is often associated with the idea of sin, as God's justice demands a penalty for sins committed against Him. However, it is also intertwined with God's love, mercy, and holiness. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to pay the penalty for humanity's sins, offering salvation to all who believe in Him.
Through prayer and following Christ's example of compassion, Christians can actively pursue biblical justice. This involves standing up for the oppressed, protecting the vulnerable, and fighting against injustice in all its forms. God's justice, therefore, serves as a guiding light for Christians, inspiring them to create positive change in the world.
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Frequently asked questions
The phrase "God's justice cannot sleep forever" was written by Thomas Jefferson in his 1782 "Notes on the State of Virginia".
The full quote is: "Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever…". Jefferson, whose relationship with slavery was fraught, took an anti-slavery stance in his early years and expressed this in his writing of the Declaration of Independence.
The phrase refers to the belief that God's justice will eventually be awakened and unleashed on the nation. It serves as a warning that the country's destiny may change due to God's intervention.
The Bible, in Psalms, mentions the idea of God sleeping or being awake. For example, Psalm 4:8 says, "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety", and Psalm 121:3-4 states, "He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep". These verses reflect a belief that God is always watching over his people and providing protection, even during sleep.
In modern times, the phrase has been used to question whether certain events or movements have been significant enough to awaken God's justice. For example, following the murder of George Floyd, commentators asked whether this was an inflection point that would prompt God's intervention to address inequality and greed.
