As [Gershom] Scholem explains, this [Shabbetaian] doctrine…
![“As [Gershom] Scholem explains, this [Shabbetaian] doctrine is connected to the idea that 'the elect are fundamentally different from the crowd and not to be judged by its standards. Standing under a new spiritual law and representing as it were a new kind of reality, they are beyond good and…” quote by Shadia Drury](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/3b7/shadia-drury-74677_beyond-good-and-evil_as-gershom-scholem-explains-this-shabbet_2038151.jpg)
“As [Gershom] Scholem explains, this [Shabbetaian] doctrine is connected to the idea that 'the elect are fundamentally different from the crowd and not to be judged by its standards. Standing under a new spiritual law and representing as it were a new kind of reality, they are beyond good and evil'. Strauss's philosopher-prophet is a secularized version of the same conceit.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The doctrine claims a chosen few operate beyond ordinary moral standards, creating a spiritual hierarchy that separates the elect from the masses.
In simple terms: Some think a select group is above normal moral rules.
Key Takeaway
Question the notion of moral superiority.
Themes
elitism
morality
spirituality
philosophy
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- religious leadership
- political power
- social movements
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
moral relativism
exceptionalism
authority
identity
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides who is "elect"?
- What are the dangers of moral exceptionalism?
A Different Perspective
Such ideas can justify oppression or exclusion.