Meaning: This quote reflects the sentiment of many individuals during the time of the American Civil War, a period marked by intense debate and conflict over the issue of slavery. The speaker, Jay Sekulow, is a prominent lawyer known for his work in constitutional law and advocacy for religious freedom. In this quote, he acknowledges the injustice of holding people in bondage and the moral imperative to address this wrong. At the same time, he also recognizes the complexities and potential consequences of taking action to abolish slavery in violation of the Constitution.

During the 19th century, the institution of slavery was a deeply divisive and contentious issue in the United States. The Southern states relied heavily on enslaved labor for their agricultural economy, while the Northern states had begun to industrialize and were less dependent on slavery. This fundamental difference in economic systems, coupled with moral and ethical concerns, led to increasing tensions between the North and the South.

The quote reflects the dilemma faced by many in the North who opposed slavery but were wary of taking unconstitutional measures to abolish it. The U.S. Constitution, a document revered for its principles of governance and rights, was also a source of contention in the context of slavery. The Constitution recognized and protected the institution of slavery, particularly through the Three-Fifths Compromise and the Fugitive Slave Clause, which fueled the debate over the legality and morality of slavery.

In the quote, Jay Sekulow acknowledges the reluctance of the North to violate the Constitution in the pursuit of abolishing slavery. This sentiment encapsulates the complex ethical and legal considerations that permeated discussions about the abolition of slavery during that time. The fear of "greater evils" that may ensue from violating the Constitution reflects concerns about the potential consequences of challenging the existing legal framework, including the possibility of further fracturing an already deeply divided nation.

The quote also underscores the internal struggle faced by many individuals who grappled with the tension between their moral opposition to slavery and their commitment to upholding the rule of law. It speaks to the profound ethical and political challenges inherent in addressing deeply entrenched social injustices within a constitutional framework that, in some respects, perpetuated those injustices.

Furthermore, the quote prompts reflection on the broader theme of constitutional governance and the balance between adherence to legal principles and the imperative to rectify moral wrongs. This tension has been a recurring theme in the history of the United States and continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about the interpretation and application of constitutional law in the context of social justice and civil rights.

In conclusion, Jay Sekulow's quote encapsulates the moral, legal, and political complexities surrounding the issue of slavery and its abolition during the American Civil War. It reflects the profound ethical dilemmas faced by individuals who sought to confront the injustice of slavery while grappling with the constitutional and societal implications of their actions. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring significance of constitutional principles and the ongoing struggle to reconcile them with the pursuit of justice and equality.