Meaning: This quote by Minna Antrim, an American writer known for her wit and humor, delves into the paradoxical nature of human behavior and religious devotion. At its core, the quote highlights the contrast between authenticity and deceit within the context of religious belief. Antrim's astute observation prompts us to reflect on the manifestation of sincerity and insincerity in individuals who profess to adhere to a particular faith.

The first part of the quote, "The difference between a saint and a hypocrite is that one lies for his religion," draws attention to the notion that individuals who are labeled as saints may resort to falsehoods or deceit in the name of their religious convictions. This challenges the conventional perception of saints as paragons of virtue and honesty. It suggests that even those who are revered for their piety and moral righteousness may resort to deception in service of their religious beliefs. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the potential for zealous adherence to religious doctrine to lead to moral compromise or ethical lapses.

Conversely, the second part of the quote, "the other by it," addresses the phenomenon of hypocrisy within religious contexts. It implies that hypocrites, in contrast to saints, employ their religious beliefs as a mask or veneer behind which they conceal their true intentions and actions. This interpretation suggests that hypocrisy arises when individuals manipulate religious principles to project an image of righteousness while simultaneously engaging in deceptive or duplicitous behavior. The quote thus underscores the idea that the outward display of religious devotion can be a smokescreen for underlying insincerity or moral failings.

Antrim's incisive observation prompts us to consider the complex interplay between religious faith, personal integrity, and moral conduct. It challenges us to scrutinize the motivations and actions of those who profess religious allegiance, urging us to look beyond outward appearances and delve into the authenticity of their beliefs and behaviors. Moreover, the quote serves as a cautionary reminder that the trappings of religious devotion do not inherently guarantee the absence of duplicity or falsehood.

This quote can also be interpreted in the context of broader societal and historical perspectives. Throughout history, individuals and institutions have wielded religious ideologies to justify actions that are morally questionable or even reprehensible. This manipulation of religious principles for ulterior motives aligns with the idea of lying for or by one's religion. Likewise, the concept of hypocrisy cloaked in religious garb has been evident in instances where individuals have exploited their purported piety to mask unethical conduct, thereby perpetuating a facade of righteousness.

In conclusion, Minna Antrim's quote encapsulates a profound insight into the intricacies of human behavior and religious devotion. It serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the paradoxes inherent in the intersection of faith and morality, prompting us to critically examine the genuineness of religious adherence and the potential for hypocrisy within religious contexts. By juxtaposing the actions of saints and hypocrites in relation to their religious beliefs, the quote compels us to contemplate the complexities of sincerity, duplicity, and ethical conduct within the realm of religious conviction.