Question

Why did Abraham Lincoln use references from the Bible in his speech?
To make his audience understand his address completely.
He believed that reference to Bible will end slavery.
He did not want to talk about the Civil War.
He was more concerned about the structure of his speech.

Answer 1

Abraham Lincoln used references from the Bible in his speeches primarily to resonate with his audience's moral and ethical beliefs. The Bible was a significant cultural reference for many Americans at the time, and by invoking its themes, Lincoln aimed to connect with the values and convictions of his listeners. His use of biblical references helped underscore the moral implications of the issues at hand, including slavery and the Civil War, and appealed to a shared sense of justice and righteousness.

Therefore, the most fitting answer would be that he wanted to make his audience understand his address completely, as he sought to draw on their common beliefs and values for deeper engagement with his message. While his use of biblical references did not guarantee an end to slavery, it was a powerful rhetorical strategy to align his arguments with moral imperatives recognized by his audience.