Steve, the sources cited are "pertinent." of course. Each is used for many purposes. Your country fought a civil war with each side quoting biblical and legislative precepts. Ditto the civil rights struggle 50-60 years ago. Your Moses reference is considered in theological and philosophical circles under myth and metaphor, rightly or wrongly, however valuable as underpinning of Western civilization.
My activism taught me that results are always more satisfactory by speaking to our own truths, knowledge and experience on public issues than reaching into the old quote toolbox. It's better to speak of contemporary icons, to their examples of courage, intellect and leadership, to something tangible as well as an ideal, to unite people in the pursuit of worthwhile goals.
