Against Heresies by Irenaeus of Lyons
2. Error, indeed, is never set forth in its naked deformity, lest, being thus exposed, it should at once be detected. But it is craftily decked out in an attractive dress, so as, by its outward form, to make it appear to the inexperienced (ridiculous as the expression may seem) more true than the truth itself. One far superior to me has well said, in reference to this point, A clever imitation in glass casts contempt, as it were, on that precious jewel the emerald (which is most highly esteemed by some), unless it come under the eye of one able to test and expose the counterfeit. Or, again, what inexperienced person can with ease detect the presence of brass when it has been mixed up with silver?
Source Evidence
Community verification
Help verify accuracy, sources, and attribution. Pick one action below — you don't need to fill out everything.
0 ratings
Rate this quote (sign in required)
Sign in to rate this quote and affect community trust scores.
Contribute
Choose what you want to add. Each option opens its own short form.
Discussion
Share context, ask questions, or discuss this quote. Comments are separate from source proposals and verification ratings.
No comments yet.