A king is a mortal god on earth, unto whom the living God…
“A king is a mortal god on earth, unto whom the living God hath lent his own name as a great honour; but withal told him, he should die like a man, lest he should be proud, and flatter himself that God hath with his name imparted unto him his nature also. JOHN LOCKE, "Of a King", The Conduct of the Understanding: Essays, Moral, Economical, and Political A king may be a tool, a thing of straw; but if he serves to frighten our enemies, and secure our property, it is well enough: a scarecrow is a thing of straw, but it protects the corn.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A king holds divine honor but must remain mortal and humble, lest pride corrupt his role as protector.
In simple terms: Kings are honored yet must stay humble.
Key Takeaway
Remember humility in power.
Themes
authority
humility
leadership
pride
responsibility
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
political
advisory
When to use this quote
- government
- military strategy
- property protection
- leadership training
Key Concepts
political philosophy
human nature
symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humility preserve effective leadership?
- What safeguards prevent a ruler’s pride?
A Different Perspective
Power can breed arrogance if unchecked, undermining its purpose.