I am not Menda, though that is what my mother called me. I…
““I am not Menda, though that is what my mother called me. I am Tehlu, lord above all. I have come to free you from demons and the wickedness of your own hearts. I am Tehlu, son of myself. Let the wicked hear my voice and tremble.” And they did tremble. But some of them refused to believe. They called him a demon and threatened him. They spoke hard, frightened words. Some threw stones and cursed him, and spat toward him and his mother. Then Tehlu grew angry, and he might have slain them all, but Perial leaped forward and laid a restraining hand on his shoulder. “What more can you expect?” she asked him quietly. “From men who live with demons for their neighbors? Even the best dog will bite that has been kicked enough.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A powerful figure confronts societal fear and hostility, yet restraint and empathy are urged over vengeance.
In simple terms: Power meets fear; choose restraint over revenge.
Key Takeaway
Practice compassion even when provoked.
Themes
power
fear
restraint
empathy
conflict
Mood
tense
reflective
hopeful
Type
narrative
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- leadership
- community conflict
- personal growth
- justice
- non‑violence
Key Concepts
heroism
moral choice
self‑identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when faced with hostility?
- When is restraint more powerful than force?
A Different Perspective
Violence may seem justified but perpetuates cycles of harm.