Nature and Circumstance of Man.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 538, 22 August 1932, Page 7

Nature and Circumstance of Man.

Consider the nature and circumstances of man. Introduced into the world in an indigent condition, he supported at first by the care of others; and as soon as he begins to act for himself finds labour and industry to be necessary for sustaining his life and supplying his wants. Mutual defence and interest give rise to society, and society, when formed, requires distinctions of property, diversity of conditions, subordination of ranks, and a multiplicity of occupations, in order to advance the general good. The services of the poor and the protection of the rich become reciprocally necessary. The governors and the governed must co-operate for general safety. Various arts must be studied; some respecting the. cultivation of the mind, others the care of the body; some to ward off the evils and some to provide the conveniences of life. In a word, by the destiny of his Creator, and the necessities of his nature, man commences, at once, an active, not merely a contemplative being. Religion assumes him as such. It supposes him employed in this world, as on a busy stage. It regulates, but does not alxtlish, the enterprises and cares of ordinary life. It addresses itself to the various ranks in society; to the rich and the poor, to the magistrate and the subject. It rebukes the slothful; directs the diligent how’ to labour; and requires every one to do his own business.—Blair.