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The law is an expression of God 's holy will and as such…

“The law is an expression of God 's holy will and as such must be honored and loved," said the preacher piously. "Rubbish," said the Master. "The law is a necessary evil and as such must be cut down to the barest minimum. Show me a lover of the law and I will show you a muttonheaded tyrant .” quote by Anthony de Mello
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“The law is an expression of God 's holy will and as such must be honored and loved," said the preacher piously. "Rubbish," said the Master. "The law is a necessary evil and as such must be cut down to the barest minimum. Show me a lover of the law and I will show you a muttonheaded tyrant .”

Anthony de Mello

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The preacher idealizes law as divine, while the Master sees it as a necessary evil to be minimized.

In simple terms: Law can be both revered and critiqued.

Key Takeaway

Balance respect with reform.

Themes

law ethics authority

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • legal reform
  • ethical training

Key Concepts

divine command legal minimalism tyranny

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is absolute law ever just?
  • When should laws be reduced?
A Different Perspective

Overly simplistic view of law.

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