"The object of man's worship, whatever it be, will naturally be his standard of perfection. He clothes it with every attribute, belonging, in his view, to a perfect character; and this character he himself endeavors to attain"

Simon Greenleaf's quote emphasizes the extensive impact of one's chosen things of praise on their individual development and concept of perfection. He suggests that whatever or whomever a person selects to worship naturally becomes their benchmark for what is best or ideal. This entity, whether it be a divine being, a human figure, or perhaps an abstract idea, is endowed by the worshiper with all the characteristics they think are necessary for excellence.

Greenleaf argues that this worshipped ideal sets a requirement that the individual will naturally desire meet. The characteristics and attributes that the private views within their object of praise end up being the structure for their own self-improvement and ethical development. For instance, if one worships a god that embodies love, justice, and wisdom, these become the virtues that the worshiper worths and aims to embody in their own life.

This analysis suggests a reciprocal relationship in between the worshiper and the worshipped: the worshiper tasks onto the item of their commitment an image of best virtues, and in turn, these virtues guide the adorer in their individual development. Greenleaf's point of view highlights the idea that worship is not a passive act however an active engagement with one's own worths and personal goals.

Moreover, this vibrant exposes the power of belief systems in shaping ethical and behavioral standards. By elevating specific characteristics as divine or best, people produce individual and communal ethical compasses. Greenleaf's insight encourages reflection on how deeply held beliefs influence not just personal identity however also cultural and societal structures. It prompts us to consider both the conscious and unconscious determinants of what we esteem as the epitome of perfection and how these ideals drive us to transform ourselves continuously.