Final answer:
The statement refers to the belief that authors of scripture were not divinely inspired, but were individuals with significant insight. This concept highlights human contributions to sacred texts and considers the role of psychological and sociological factors. It also acknowledges the human process in determining what texts are deemed sacred.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement suggests that the authors of scripture were not divinely inspired but were rather gifted men with remarkable insight who wrote about religious matters based on their own understanding. This perspective is increasingly common as more people consider the psychological and sociological explanations for the creation of sacred texts. Instead of being inspired by a deity, these texts are seen as human creations, influenced by the authors' personal experiences and the historical context of their time.
Some scholars argue that sacred scriptures, often thought to have been either inspired by the deity or dictated by a deity, were actually composed by individuals who may have had profound spiritual experiences or simply possessed a deep understanding of human nature and morality. Additionally, the process of canonization, where certain texts were chosen over others by religious leaders, also suggests a human hand in the formation of what is considered sacred.
Understanding this approach requires looking at scriptures not just as divine commands or literal accounts of historical events, but as literature that reflects human thinking and the cultural milieu of its authors. These texts continue to offer moral guidance and serve as a source of contemplation for believers and non-believers alike.