Yet it would be unfair to the generality of our kind to…
“Yet it would be unfair to the generality of our kind to ascribe to their intellectual and moral weakness the gradual divergence of Buddhism and Christianity from their primitive patterns. For it should not be forgotten that by their glorification of poverty and celibacy both these religions struck straight at the root not merely of civil society but of human existence. The blow was parried by the wisdom or the folly of the vast majority of mankind, who refused to purchase a chance of saving their souls with the certainty of extinguishing the species.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Religions often use ascetic ideals to challenge societal norms, but humanity resists losing its material focus.
In simple terms: Religions promote poverty and celibacy to oppose society, but most people reject this.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the tension between spiritual ideals and material life.
Themes
spirituality
materialism
conflict
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- religious reform
- social movements
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
asceticism
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see value in ascetic practices today?
- How do material needs shape spiritual choices?
A Different Perspective
The view may oversimplify complex historical interactions.