Classic Poem

Man is God's living temple, and the hand
Is impious that, for conquest, gain, or hate,
The hallow'd walls of flesh would desecrate
With bloody violence. For ever banned
Be they that joy in war! But since no fane
Exists but for a worship, and our Lord,
Being Lord of Justice, still is Lord of Hosts,
When 'neath the oppressor's yoke the lands complain,
Or thought and freedom fly the invaded coasts, —
Deem it religion then to bear the sword!
The fortress is a temple in that hour,
A priest the chief who fights for Right with Power.
Strike down even man for what makes man divine,
Nor disobey the God to save the shrine!