Taking it in its wider and generic application, I understand faith to be the supplement of sense; or, to change the phrase, all knowledge which comes not to us through our senses we gain by faith in others.

The quote by Matthew Simpson explores the nature of faith and knowledge, emphasizing its role as a complement to sensory experience. By stating, “I understand faith to be the supplement of sense,” Simpson suggests that not all knowledge comes directly through our own observation or experience. Faith, in this sense, serves as a way to access information, understanding, or truths that are beyond immediate perception, allowing us to extend our knowledge through trust in others.

Simpson further clarifies this idea by noting, “all knowledge which comes not to us through our senses we gain by faith in others.” This highlights the social and relational dimension of learning, where reliance on the testimony, expertise, or experience of others becomes essential. Whether in science, history, or daily life, we often accept knowledge that we cannot verify firsthand, illustrating that faith—understood as trust—is a fundamental component of human understanding.

Matthew Simpson, an American bishop and preacher in the 19th century, was deeply engaged with theological reflection and education. His writings often explored the intersection of faith, reason, and learning, seeking to explain how spiritual and intellectual life are intertwined. This quote reflects his view that faith is not blind belief, but a necessary supplement to our sensory and experiential knowledge, enabling a fuller grasp of reality.

Ultimately, the quote encourages recognition of the limits of direct experience and the importance of trust in the knowledge of others. Simpson reminds us that human understanding is both individual and communal: while our senses provide immediate perception, faith allows us to expand our awareness, bridging the gap between what we can observe and what we can know through others’ insight.