Meaning: The quote "Religion is not a popular error; it is a great instinctive truth, sensed by the people, expressed by the people" by Ernest Renan, a French philosopher, reflects an interpretation of religion as a fundamental aspect of human experience. Renan's perspective suggests that religion is not merely a mistaken belief held by the masses, but rather a deeply ingrained truth that is intuitively understood and articulated by people across different cultures and societies.

Renan's assertion that religion is not a popular error challenges the notion that religious beliefs are simply the result of ignorance or superstition. Instead, he proposes that religion arises from a profound instinctive truth that resonates with human beings on a fundamental level. This perspective acknowledges the significance of religious beliefs and practices in shaping the worldview and identity of individuals and communities throughout history.

Furthermore, Renan emphasizes that religion is not only sensed but also expressed by the people. This highlights the role of religious expression as a means of articulating and manifesting the intuitive truths that underpin religious belief. Whether through rituals, art, music, or oral traditions, people have long sought to give tangible form to their spiritual experiences and convictions, thereby enriching the cultural and social fabric of human civilization.

Renan's perspective on religion as a great instinctive truth aligns with the anthropological and sociological understanding of religion as a universal phenomenon that transcends specific cultural and historical contexts. The recognition of religion as an intrinsic aspect of human existence acknowledges its pervasive influence on individual behavior, social organization, and collective identity.

From a historical standpoint, the quote can be contextualized within the broader discourse on the nature and significance of religion in human societies. Throughout history, religion has played a central role in shaping moral codes, political systems, and cultural practices, serving as a source of meaning, guidance, and community cohesion for countless individuals and communities.

Renan's emphasis on the people as the bearers and expressors of religious truths also underscores the participatory and communal nature of religious experience. This highlights the collective dimension of religion, wherein shared beliefs and practices contribute to the formation of religious communities and the transmission of cultural heritage across generations.

In conclusion, Ernest Renan's quote provides a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of religion as a great instinctive truth that is sensed and expressed by people. By recognizing the profound and pervasive influence of religion on human experience, Renan invites us to consider the significance of religious beliefs and practices in shaping individual and collective identity, cultural expression, and societal values. This quote serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of religion on human civilization and the diverse ways in which it continues to enrich and shape the human experience.