city upon a hill

Etymology
From Matthew 5:14. Cited by English colonist in the 1630 sermon. In turn, Winthrop's sermon was co-opted by later figures as an example of American exceptionalism.

Noun

 * 1) A morally exemplary settlement, destined by God for greater things.  Most often used to refer to the United States, or more specifically the.

Alternative forms

 * city on a hill