Complete classic literature • Five-line readings • Clear US narration
VELMORA ACADEMY
Academy of Archival Languages & Memory Studies
Menu Close
A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious
A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious is here in full — 101 sentences across 21 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious
Context Illustration Reading 1/20 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.
_Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.
If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.
So far all is well.
But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.
0:00 / 0:00
Speed 0.75x
AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious is here in full — 101 sentences across 21 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/20 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.
/ˌɪˈnædəkwət kənˈsepʃənz ʌv ðə ˌɪmˈpɔːrtəns ʌv ˌkrɪstʃiˈænɪti/
Line 2
_Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.
Line 3
If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.
Line 4
So far all is well.
/soʊ fɑːr ɔːl ɪz wel/
Line 5
But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.
/bʌt let ˈeni wʌn huː wʊd nɑːt biː dɪˈsiːvd baɪ ðiːz ˈbærən ˌdʒenərˈælətiz ɪɡˈzæmɪn ə ˈlɪtəl mɔːr ˈkloʊsli ənd hiː wɪl faɪnd ðæt nɑːt tuː ˌkrɪstʃiˈænɪti ɪn pərˈtɪkjələr bʌt æt best tuː rɪˈlɪdʒən ɪn ˈdʒenərəl pərˈhæps tuː mɪr mərˈæləti ðer ˈɑːmədʒ ɪz ˌɪnˈtendɪd tuː biː peɪd/

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

applauded verb US /əˈplɔːdɪd/

past form of “applaud” — clap one's hands or shout after performances to indicate approval

From this reading “If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.”

censured verb US /ˈsenʃərd/

past form of “censure” — rebuke formally

From this reading “If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.”

conceptions noun US /kənˈsepʃənz/

plural of “conception” — an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

From this reading “INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.”

defects noun US /ˈdiːfekts/

plural of “defect” — an imperfection in a bodily system

From this reading “_Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.”

generalities noun US /ˌdʒenərˈælətiz/

plural of “generality” — an idea or conclusion having general application

From this reading “But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.”

inadequate adjective US /ˌɪˈnædəkwət/

lacking the requisite qualities or resources to meet a task

From this reading “INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.”

Maxims noun US /ˈmæksəmz/

plural of “maxim” — a saying that is widely accepted on its own merits

From this reading “_Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.”

Scripture noun US /ˈskrɪptʃər/

the sacred writings of the Christian religions

From this reading “_Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.”

All words in this reading · 96

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

AccountnounUS /əˈkaʊnt/

a record or narrative description of past events

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading So far all is well.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

applaudedverbUS /əˈplɔːdɪd/

past form of “applaud” — clap one's hands or shout after performances to indicate approval

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

barrenadjectiveUS /ˈbærən/

providing no shelter or sustenance

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

BeforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

bestnounUS /best/

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

bulknounUS /bʌlk/

the property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

CasenounUS /keɪs/

an occurrence of something

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

censuredverbUS /ˈsenʃərd/

past form of “censure” — rebuke formally

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

CHRISTIANITYnounUS /ˌkrɪstʃiˈænɪti/

a monotheistic system of beliefs and practices based on the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus as embodied in the New Testament and emphasizing the role of Jesus as savior

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

ChristiansnounUS /ˈkrɪstʃənz/

plural of “christian” — a religious person who believes Jesus is the Christ and who is a member of a Christian denomination

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

closelyadverbUS /ˈkloʊsli/

in a close relation or position in time or space

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

conceptionnounUS /kənˈsepʃən/

an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

CONCEPTIONSnounUS /kənˈsepʃənz/

plural of “conception” — an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

condemnedverbUS /kənˈdemd/

past form of “condemn” — express strong disapproval of

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

considerationnounUS /kənˌsɪdərˈeɪʃən/

the process of giving careful thought to something

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

conversationnounUS /ˌkɑːnvərˈseɪʃən/

the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

criminaladjectiveUS /ˈkrɪmənəl/

bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

deceivedverbUS /dɪˈsiːvd/

past form of “deceive” — be false to; be dishonest with

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

defectsnounUS /ˈdiːfekts/

plural of “defect” — an imperfection in a bodily system

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

entertainverbUS /ˌentərˈteɪn/

provide entertainment for

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

examineverbUS /ɪɡˈzæmɪn/

consider in detail and subject to an analysis in order to discover essential features or meaning

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

excellencenounUS /ˈeksələns/

the quality of excelling; possessing good qualities in high degree

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

exposedadjectiveUS /ɪkˈspoʊzd/

with no protection or shield

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

falseadjectiveUS /fɔːls/

not in accordance with the fact or reality or actuality

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

faradverbUS /fɑːr/

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading So far all is well.

findverbUS /faɪnd/

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

generaladjectiveUS /ˈdʒenərəl/

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

generalitiesnounUS /ˌdʒenərˈælətiz/

plural of “generality” — an idea or conclusion having general application

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

hepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

homagenounUS /ˈɑːmədʒ/

respectful deference

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

IfconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

IgnorancenounUS /ˈɪɡnərəns/

the lack of knowledge or education

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

IMPORTANCEnounUS /ˌɪmˈpɔːrtəns/

the quality of being important and worthy of note

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

INADEQUATEadjectiveUS /ˌɪˈnædəkwət/

lacking the requisite qualities or resources to meet a task

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

intendedadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈtendɪd/

resulting from one's intentions

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

letauxiliary verbUS /let/

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

listenverbUS /ˈlɪsən/

hear with intention

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

MaximsnounUS /ˈmæksəmz/

plural of “maxim” — a saying that is widely accepted on its own merits

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

mereadjectiveUS /mɪr/

being nothing more than specified

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

MoralitynounUS /mərˈæləti/

concern with the distinction between good and evil or right and wrong; right or good conduct

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

naturenounUS /ˈneɪtʃər/

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

NotionsnounUS /ˈnoʊʃənz/

plural of “notion” — a vague idea in which some confidence is placed

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

OFprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

paidadjectiveUS /peɪd/

marked by the reception of pay

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

particularadjectiveUS /pərˈtɪkjələr/

unique or specific to a person or thing or category

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

peculiaradjectiveUS /pəˈkjuːljər/

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

perhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

pietynounUS /ˈpaɪəti/

righteousness by virtue of being pious

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

pointnounUS /pɔɪnt/

a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

PopularadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːpjələr/

regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

praisedverbUS /preɪzd/

past form of “praise” — express approval of

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

proceedverbUS /prəˈsiːd/

continue talking

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

profanenessnoun

an attitude of irreverence or contempt for a divinity

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

professedadjectiveUS /prəˈfest/

professing to be qualified

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

properadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːpər/

marked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

ReligionnounUS /rɪˈlɪdʒən/

a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

religiousadjectiveUS /rɪˈlɪdʒəs/

concerned with sacred matters or religion or the church

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

ScripturenounUS /ˈskrɪptʃər/

the sacred writings of the Christian religions

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

SoconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading So far all is well.

superioradjectiveUS /suːˈpɪriər/

of high or superior quality or performance

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

systemnounUS /ˈsɪstəm/

instrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading INADEQUATE CONCEPTIONS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIANITY.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

TwonounUS /tuː/

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

vicenounUS /vaɪs/

moral weakness

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

virtuenounUS /ˈvɝː.tʃuː/

Moral excellence and goodness of character; the highest human attainment in Stoic philosophy.

From this reading If we listen to their conversation, virtue is praised, and vice is censured; piety is perhaps applauded, and profaneness condemned.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

welladverbUS /wel/

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading So far all is well.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading _Popular Notions.--Scripture Account.--Ignorance in this Case criminal.--Two false Maxims exposed._ Before we proceed to the consideration of any particular defects in the religious system of the bulk of professed Christians, it may be proper to point out the very inadequate conception which they entertain of the importance of Christianity in general, of its peculiar nature, and superior excellence.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading But let any one, who would not be deceived, by these "barren generalities" examine a little more closely, and he will find, that not to Christianity in particular, but at best to Religion in general, perhaps to mere Morality, their homage is intended to be paid.

Chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious by William Wilberforce holds 101 sentences, grouped into 21 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious contain?

Chapter 2 holds 101 sentences of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious, unabridged, divided into 21 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious by William Wilberforce exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 101 sentences, grouped into 21 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 2 of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious?

Work through the 21 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 21 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 2 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious

Common questions about reading A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious by William Wilberforce on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious?

Yes. All 3175 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #25709 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #25709, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious take to read?

About 264 minutes of reading across 635 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious section by section

How to work through A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 8 chapters of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious

Words and structures a reader meets early in A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Practical
A word that appears in the opening chapter of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Prevailing
A word that appears in the opening chapter of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Religious
A word that appears in the opening chapter of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
System
A word that appears in the opening chapter of A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.