"The devil divides the world between atheism and superstition"

This quote by George Herbert is a commentary on the state of the world and how it is divided between two extremes. On one side, there is atheism, which is the belief that there is no higher power or spiritual force in the universe. On the other side, there is superstitious notion, which is the belief in supernatural forces and the power of luck and fate. Herbert suggests that the devil is responsible for this department, as it is the devil who is responsible for the spread of both atheism and superstition. He suggests that the devil is using this division to wreak havoc and confusion on the planet. By pitting these two opposing forces against each other, the devil has the ability to sow discord and avoid people from finding a common ground. Eventually, Herbert is alerting us to be familiar with the devil's influence and to be cautious of the departments he creates.