Zahhak reigned for a thousand years, and from end to end…
““Zahhak reigned for a thousand years, and from end to end the world was his to command. The wise concealed themselves and their deeds, and devils achieved their heart’s desire. Virtue was despised and magic applauded, justice hid itself away while evil flourished; demons rejoiced in their wickedness, while goodness was spoken of only in secret.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage describes a tyrannical ruler whose reign allows evil to thrive while virtue hides, highlighting the triumph of deceit over truth.
In simple terms: Evil flourishes when virtue is hidden.
Key Takeaway
Protect and promote virtue openly.
Themes
power
corruption
morality
mythology
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
mythic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political oppression
- social injustice
- cultural narratives
Key Concepts
tyranny
secrecy
justice
evil
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies reveal and support virtue?
- What mechanisms expose hidden corruption?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing hidden virtue may ignore practical action.