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The will is a beast of burden. If God mounts it, it wishes…

“The will is a beast of burden. If God mounts it, it wishes and goes as God wills; if Satan mounts it, it wishes and goes as Satan wills; Nor can it choose its rider... the riders contend for its possession.” quote by Martin Luther
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“The will is a beast of burden. If God mounts it, it wishes and goes as God wills; if Satan mounts it, it wishes and goes as Satan wills; Nor can it choose its rider... the riders contend for its possession.”

Martin Luther

About This Quote

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

Human will is shaped by the higher power that controls it, be it divine or demonic, leaving no true autonomy.

In simple terms: Will follows its master, not its own choice.

Key Takeaway

Recognize external influences on decisions.

Themes

free will spiritual struggle determinism

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • personal choices
  • leadership decisions
  • moral dilemmas

Key Concepts

theology psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What forces truly guide your choices?
  • Can will be free from any rider?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex motivations to only two forces.

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