Question

"Know now then thyself, presume not God to scan;/The proper study of mankind is man."

Which of these is nearest in meaning to the word presume, as it is used in the passage above?

-hasten
-invent
-cease
-attempt*

I think it is attempt but I am not sure.

Answer 1

The quotation has got the following meaning: People who knows himself, they do not attempt to judge God. And then this a true judgment.

It is obvious from the interpretation that the correct answer is the last option - attempt. Even if we can check for other options, we'll still be left with this option. Indeed, only attempt will have close meaning with presume.

Answer 2

The nearest in meaning to presume is attempt. The Pope is trying to encourage his audience not to size up God especially with regards to his dealings with us, his creatures, and in his providence. When ever we make presumptions we attempt to make God in our image and that's what the Pope attempts to correct. According to the Pope, when one "know now then thyself" they wouldn't attempt to "scan" God.