Meaning: The quote you provided is a statement by Adam Smith, the renowned economist and philosopher, regarding the eminent philosopher David Hume's approaching death. It is a testament to Hume's character and demeanor in the face of his own mortality, contrasting it with the perceived lack of genuine resignation and cheerfulness in some individuals who profess religious faith.

David Hume was a Scottish philosopher, historian, and economist, whose work profoundly influenced Western philosophy and the scientific method. He is particularly known for his empiricist approach to understanding human nature and his skepticism towards religious beliefs. Hume's philosophical views often challenged prevailing religious and moral conventions, and his writings on skepticism and empiricism continue to be influential in contemporary thought.

Adam Smith, a close friend of Hume, was a prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment and is widely regarded as the father of modern economics. He is best known for his seminal work, "The Wealth of Nations," which laid the foundation for classical economics and promoted the concept of free-market capitalism. Smith's intellectual and personal relationship with Hume was characterized by mutual respect and admiration, making his commentary on Hume's final days particularly poignant.

In the quote, Smith reflects on Hume's approaching death and observes that despite his physical decline, Hume maintains a sense of cheerfulness, good humor, and genuine resignation to the inevitability of his own mortality. Smith contrasts this with the behavior of some individuals who profess religious faith, suggesting that Hume's approach to death is characterized by a more authentic and sincere acceptance of the natural course of events.

The quote is significant in that it offers insight into Hume's character and approach to life and death. It also sheds light on the relationship between religious belief and philosophical resignation. By emphasizing Hume's cheerfulness and genuine resignation, Smith challenges the notion that religious individuals are necessarily more at peace with the prospect of death. This reflects the broader philosophical debate between religious and secular perspectives on mortality and the human condition.

Hume's attitude towards death, as depicted in Smith's quote, aligns with his philosophical views on the nature of human existence. Hume's skepticism and empiricism led him to question traditional religious beliefs and to advocate for a naturalistic understanding of the world. In the face of his own mortality, Hume's demeanor reflects an acceptance of the natural order and an absence of reliance on religious consolation, which is consistent with his philosophical outlook.

The quote also serves as a testament to the depth of the friendship between Hume and Smith. It captures Smith's admiration for Hume's character and his ability to face death with courage and grace. Their close relationship and intellectual camaraderie are evident in Smith's poignant reflection on Hume's final days, underscoring the profound impact of their friendship on each other's lives and intellectual development.

In conclusion, the quote by Adam Smith regarding David Hume's approaching death offers a glimpse into Hume's character and philosophical outlook, as well as the nature of his friendship with Smith. It provides valuable insight into the interplay between religious faith, philosophical resignation, and the human experience of mortality. The quote stands as a testament to Hume's enduring influence and the depth of his impact on the intellectual and philosophical landscape of his time.