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Angel Quote by Arthur Hertzberg

“The world was created because God willed it, but why did He will it? Judaism has maintained, in all of its versions, that this world is the arena that God created for man, half beast and half angel; to prove that he could be a moral being...man was given dominion over nature, but he was commanded…” quote by Arthur Hertzberg
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“The world was created because God willed it, but why did He will it? Judaism has maintained, in all of its versions, that this world is the arena that God created for man, half beast and half angel; to prove that he could be a moral being...man was given dominion over nature, but he was commanded to behave towards the rest of creation with justice and compassion. Man lives, always, in tension between his power and the limits set by his conscience.”

Arthur Hertzberg

About This Quote

Source Book: The Jewish Experience, Arthur Hertzberg, 1979

The quote reflects on humanity's divine purpose, moral responsibility, and the tension between power and conscience.

In simple terms: Humans are meant to act morally within limits set by conscience.

Key Takeaway

Balance power with compassion and justice.

Themes

morality responsibility human nature

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • environmental stewardship
  • personal decision-making
  • social justice

Key Concepts

theology ethics anthropology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile personal power with ethical limits?
  • What role does compassion play in exercising authority?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook cultural differences in interpreting divine will.

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