Meaning: This quote by Charles Eastman challenges the perception of miracles and myths by drawing a parallel between the American Indian myths and hero stories and those of the Hebrews. Eastman, a Santee Dakota physician and writer, was known for his advocacy for Native American rights and his efforts to bridge the cultural gap between Native American and Euro-American cultures. In this quote, he presents a thought-provoking perspective on the credibility of miracles and myths, urging the logical mind to consider the equal validity of different cultural narratives.

At the heart of this quote is the juxtaposition of different cultural belief systems and their respective myths and hero stories. Eastman highlights the inherent subjectivity in evaluating the credibility of miracles and myths, challenging the notion that the myths and hero stories of one culture should be deemed more or less credible than those of another. By linking the American Indian myths and hero stories with those of the Hebrews, Eastman prompts the reader to question the basis on which such narratives are typically judged.

One of the key themes that emerges from Eastman's quote is the idea of cultural relativism, which suggests that beliefs, values, and practices should be understood within the context of a particular culture, and that no one culture's beliefs should be considered inherently superior or more credible than another. In the context of miracles and myths, cultural relativism invites a reevaluation of preconceived notions about what is considered credible or plausible. This challenges the idea of a universal standard for evaluating the validity of miraculous or mythological accounts, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting diverse cultural perspectives.

Moreover, Eastman's quote raises questions about the nature of belief and the role of cultural context in shaping one's understanding of the miraculous and the mythic. By presenting the American Indian myths and hero stories as being "quite as credible" as those of the Hebrews, Eastman invites the reader to consider the impact of cultural background on the reception and interpretation of such narratives. This challenges the assumption that the credibility of miracles and myths can be objectively determined, independent of the cultural framework in which they are embedded.

In addition, Eastman's quote can be seen as a critique of ethnocentrism, which involves judging other cultures based on the standards and values of one's own culture. By drawing attention to the credibility of American Indian myths and hero stories, Eastman challenges the prevailing Eurocentric attitudes that have historically marginalized and dismissed indigenous narratives. Through this quote, Eastman advocates for a more inclusive and equitable approach to understanding and appreciating diverse cultural traditions, emphasizing the need to recognize the value and validity of indigenous belief systems.

Ultimately, Charles Eastman's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the richness and diversity of human cultural expression. It prompts us to reconsider our assumptions about the credibility of miracles and myths, urging us to approach such narratives with an open mind and a willingness to engage with the cultural contexts from which they emerge. By acknowledging the equal credibility of different cultural narratives, Eastman's quote encourages us to embrace cultural relativism and to appreciate the complex tapestry of human belief and storytelling traditions.

In conclusion, Charles Eastman's quote challenges us to reexamine our perspectives on miracles and myths, urging us to consider the equal credibility of diverse cultural narratives. Through his thought-provoking words, Eastman inspires us to embrace cultural relativism and to recognize the value of indigenous belief systems, inviting us to approach the wondrous diversity of human cultural expression with open-mindedness and respect.