Meaning: The quote "A little skill in antiquity inclines a man to Popery" is attributed to Thomas Fuller, an English churchman and historian who lived in the 17th century. This quote reflects the idea that an interest in ancient traditions and practices can lead a person towards Roman Catholicism, also known as Popery. To fully understand the context and implications of this quote, it is important to delve into the historical and religious background of the time in which Thomas Fuller lived, as well as to consider the broader implications of the relationship between antiquity and religious affiliation.

During Fuller's lifetime, England was undergoing significant religious and political upheaval. The Protestant Reformation had taken hold in England, leading to the establishment of the Church of England and the eventual break from the authority of the Pope in Rome. This period saw the dissolution of monasteries, the suppression of Catholic practices, and the rise of Protestant theology and worship. In this context, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the tensions and divisions between Protestantism and Catholicism in England during the 17th century.

The term "Popery" was commonly used by Protestants to refer to the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church, often with a negative connotation. It encompassed the veneration of saints, the authority of the Pope, the use of sacraments, and other traditional Catholic rituals and doctrines. For many Protestants, these practices were seen as relics of a bygone era, incompatible with the reforms and principles of the Reformation.

Fuller's assertion that "a little skill in antiquity inclines a man to Popery" suggests that an understanding and appreciation of ancient traditions and customs could lead individuals to embrace Catholicism. This sentiment reflects a common Protestant suspicion of the perceived "papist" tendencies of those who showed an interest in the historical roots of Christianity. It also underscores the tension between a desire to return to the early Christian practices and the fear of slipping back into what Protestants viewed as the superstitions and corruptions of the Catholic Church.

The quote also speaks to the broader relationship between antiquity and religious affiliation. Throughout history, different religious traditions have drawn on the authority of ancient texts, rituals, and teachings to substantiate their beliefs and practices. The appeal to antiquity as a source of legitimacy and authenticity is not unique to Christianity but can be observed in various religious and cultural contexts.

In the case of Christianity, the early church fathers and the writings of the New Testament have been foundational sources of authority and inspiration for many Christian denominations. However, the interpretation and appropriation of ancient traditions have often been a point of contention and divergence among different Christian communities.

In conclusion, Thomas Fuller's quote "A little skill in antiquity inclines a man to Popery" encapsulates the complex relationship between historical knowledge, religious identity, and the ideological divisions of 17th-century England. It reflects the suspicions and tensions between Protestantism and Catholicism during a time of religious and political upheaval. Furthermore, it raises broader questions about the role of antiquity in shaping religious beliefs and practices, a theme that continues to resonate in the study of religious history and theology.

Overall, the quote serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of history and tradition on religious identity and the ways in which the interpretation of antiquity can shape individual and communal affiliations with faith.