In religion, a false prophet (anglicized from the Latin Vulgate: falsis prophetis) is one who falsely claims the gift of prophecy or divine inspiration, or who uses that gift for evil ends. Often, someone who is considered a "true prophet" by some people is simultaneously considered a "false prophet" by others, even within the same religion as the "prophet" in question. The term is sometimes applied outside religion to describe someone who fervently promotes a theory that the speaker thinks is false.
Read more about False Prophet: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Use Outside Religion
Famous quotes containing the words false and/or prophet:
“The books one reads in childhood, and perhaps most of all the bad and good bad books, create in one’s mind a sort of false map of the world, a series of fabulous countries into which one can retreat at odd moments throughout the rest of life, and which in some cases can survive a visit to the real countries which they are supposed to represent.”
—George Orwell (1903–1950)
“It is the manner of gods and prophets to begin: “Thou shalt have none other God or Prophet but me.” If I were to start as a God or a prophet I think I should take the line: “Thou shalt not believe in me. Thou shalt not have me for a God. Thou shalt worship any d_____d thing thou likest except me.” This should be my first and great commandment, and my second should be like unto it.”
—Samuel Butler (1835–1902)