Meaning: This quote by Ronald Reagan highlights his belief in the interconnectedness of freedom, religion, and the rule of law. Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, was known for his strong emphasis on individual liberty and the importance of faith and moral values in society. In this quote, he suggests that a society that embraces both a vibrant religious life and acknowledges the rule of law under God will thrive and prosper.

Reagan's emphasis on the vibrancy of religion speaks to his conviction that faith and spirituality play a significant role in shaping the moral fabric of a nation. He believed that a society in which religion is vibrant is one in which individuals are guided by ethical and moral principles, leading to a more cohesive and virtuous community. Reagan's own faith in Christianity was a central aspect of his personal and political identity, and he often spoke about the positive influence of religious values on society.

Additionally, Reagan's reference to the rule of law under God underscores his belief in the importance of a higher moral authority as the foundation of legal and governmental systems. By acknowledging the rule of law under God, Reagan suggests that the principles of justice and governance are rooted in a higher, transcendent source, which serves as a guiding force for creating and upholding just laws and institutions. This concept aligns with the traditional understanding of natural law, which posits that there are universal moral principles that transcend human-made laws.

Reagan's articulation of the relationship between freedom, religion, and the rule of law reflects his belief that these elements are mutually reinforcing. He saw freedom not as a license to do whatever one pleases, but as a responsibility to live in accordance with moral and ethical principles. In Reagan's view, a society that upholds religious vibrancy and acknowledges the rule of law under God is one that fosters a sense of individual responsibility and accountability.

Moreover, Reagan's quote can be understood in the context of his broader political philosophy, which emphasized limited government and the protection of individual liberties. He believed that a society grounded in religious and moral values, and governed by the rule of law under God, would naturally lead to greater individual freedom. Reagan saw the role of government as being limited to upholding the rule of law and preserving the conditions necessary for individuals to pursue their own aspirations and well-being.

In conclusion, Ronald Reagan's quote encapsulates his belief in the interconnectedness of freedom, religion, and the rule of law. He viewed a vibrant religious life and the acknowledgment of the rule of law under God as essential components for the prosperity and well-being of a society. By embracing these principles, Reagan believed that individuals would be guided by moral values, and the foundations of justice and governance would be rooted in transcendent principles. This perspective reflects Reagan's conviction that a society built on faith, moral values, and the rule of law under God would be one in which freedom thrives and flourishes.