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Show a man too many camels' bones, or show them to him too…

“Show a man too many camels' bones, or show them to him too often, and he will not be able to recognize a camel when he comes across a live one. (Mirza Ahsan of Tabriz)” quote by Idries Shah
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““Show a man too many camels' bones, or show them to him too often, and he will not be able to recognize a camel when he comes across a live one. (Mirza Ahsan of Tabriz)””

Idries Shah

About This Quote

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

Overexposure to representations can blind one to reality, making the authentic unrecognizable.

In simple terms: Too many examples obscure the real thing.

Key Takeaway

Seek direct experience over endless examples.

Themes

perception reality learning

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • art criticism
  • media consumption
  • personal insight

Key Concepts

symbolism overanalysis authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate symbol from reality?
  • When does learning become hindrance?
A Different Perspective

May discourage useful study.

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