Meaning: The quote "No politician has ever yet been able to rule his country, nor has any country ever yet been able to face the world, upon the principles of the Sermon on the Mount" by Frederick Oliver, is a thought-provoking statement that raises questions about the relationship between politics, governance, and moral principles. The quote refers to the Sermon on the Mount, a collection of teachings and sayings of Jesus Christ found in the Gospel of Matthew (5-7), and it suggests that the idealistic and altruistic principles outlined in the Sermon on the Mount are not easily reconcilable with the practical realities of political leadership and international relations.

The Sermon on the Mount is often regarded as a cornerstone of Christian ethics and morality, encompassing teachings on humility, compassion, forgiveness, and nonviolence. In the context of political leadership, these principles may seem at odds with the often complex and pragmatic considerations that politicians must navigate in the governance of a country. The quote implies that while the ideals espoused in the Sermon on the Mount may be admirable and desirable, they may not always align with the practical demands and complexities of political leadership.

In the realm of international relations, the quote also suggests that a country's ability to engage with the global community may be influenced by its adherence to the principles of the Sermon on the Mount. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the challenges and trade-offs that countries face when balancing their national interests with broader ethical and moral considerations on the world stage.

Frederick Oliver, the author of the quote, was an English writer and journalist known for his works on political and social commentary. His statement reflects a critical perspective on the relationship between political governance and ethical principles, highlighting the inherent tensions and challenges that arise when attempting to reconcile these two domains.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, and it invites contemplation on the nature of political leadership, ethical decision-making, and the complexities of international diplomacy. It raises questions about whether it is realistic or even possible for politicians and countries to fully embody the principles of the Sermon on the Mount in their actions and policies, given the multifaceted nature of governance and international relations.

From a historical and contemporary perspective, the quote also prompts consideration of instances where political leaders and countries have grappled with the application of moral and ethical principles in their governance and interactions with other nations. It invites reflection on the challenges and limitations that may arise when attempting to uphold such principles within the context of real-world political dynamics, power struggles, and competing national interests.

In conclusion, Frederick Oliver's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of politics and morality, suggesting that the principles of the Sermon on the Mount present inherent challenges for political leaders and countries in their governance and international engagements. It provides a lens through which to examine the complexities and tensions inherent in the pursuit of ethical governance and international relations, prompting deeper reflection on the ideals and practical realities of political leadership.