Meaning: The quote "Some hypocrites and seeming mortified men, that held down their heads, were like the little images that they place in the very bowing of the vaults of churches, that look as if they held up the church, but are but puppets" is attributed to William Laud, a prominent clergyman in the Church of England during the early 17th century. This quote reflects Laud's criticism of individuals who outwardly appear pious and humble, but are in fact insincere and deceitful in their religious practices.

Laud was known for his strong beliefs in the importance of ritual and ceremony within the church, and he often clashed with Puritan factions who sought to purify the Church of England of what they saw as Catholic remnants. In this quote, Laud uses the metaphor of "little images" placed in the vaults of churches to convey his disdain for those who feign piety for appearances' sake. The imagery of these "little images" creating the illusion of supporting the church, while being merely puppets, suggests that Laud saw such individuals as deceptive and lacking genuine faith.

The reference to "hypocrites and seeming mortified men" indicates Laud's skepticism towards those who outwardly display an appearance of humility and religious devotion, but do not embody these qualities in their true character. The concept of "seeming mortified men" suggests that these individuals may be pretending to be humble and penitent, while in reality, they are not sincere in their religious practices.

Laud's views on the importance of outward displays of piety and the dangers of hypocrisy were deeply influenced by the religious and political climate of his time. The tensions between different religious factions, as well as the struggle for power and influence within the Church of England, contributed to Laud's emphasis on the outward manifestation of religious devotion.

The metaphor of the "little images" in the vaults of churches also carries symbolic significance. In medieval and Renaissance architecture, vaulted ceilings and arches were often adorned with sculptures and images of saints, angels, and other religious figures. These decorative elements were intended to inspire awe and reverence, and to convey the idea of heavenly support for the physical structure of the church. By likening hypocrites to these "little images," Laud may be suggesting that they project an illusion of spiritual support and strength, but in reality, they are hollow and devoid of true faith.

Laud's emphasis on the dangers of hypocrisy and insincerity in religious practice aligns with broader themes in Christian theology and ethics. The New Testament contains numerous warnings against hypocrisy, and Jesus himself condemned the Pharisees for their outward displays of piety that masked their inner corruption. Laud's quote can be seen as a continuation of this tradition of moral and spiritual discernment, urging believers to cultivate genuine faith and humility rather than mere outward appearances.

In conclusion, William Laud's quote about hypocrites and seeming mortified men reflects his concerns about insincere religious practices and the dangers of hypocrisy within the church. The metaphor of the "little images" in the vaults of churches conveys his skepticism towards individuals who project an illusion of piety while lacking genuine faith. Laud's emphasis on the importance of sincerity and authenticity in religious devotion resonates with broader themes in Christian ethics and serves as a reminder to prioritize inner spiritual integrity over outward appearances.