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End of time Quote by Franz Rosenthal

“At the end of time, there will be scholars who will not practice what they preach. They will preach abstention from this world and a desire for the other world, but they will practice neither. They will forbid approaching the men in power, but they themselves will approach them. They will prefer…” quote by Franz Rosenthal
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““At the end of time, there will be scholars who will not practice what they preach. They will preach abstention from this world and a desire for the other world, but they will practice neither. They will forbid approaching the men in power, but they themselves will approach them. They will prefer the rich and keep the poor away. They will hold back when they are together with lowly individuals, and they will be expansive when they are in the company of important persons. They will be tyrants, enemies of God.””

Franz Rosenthal

About This Quote

Source Book: The History of Islamic Thought, Franz Rosenthal, 1970

The quote criticizes hypocrisy among scholars who preach spiritual ideals but act in self‑interest and favor the powerful, neglecting the poor and true teachings.

In simple terms: Scholars often act opposite to what they teach.

Key Takeaway

Beware of hypocrisy in leadership.

Themes

hypocrisy power religion ethics

Mood

critical reflective

Type

cautionary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious institutions
  • political advisory
  • community leadership
  • educational settings

Key Concepts

moral inconsistency social justice authority dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do personal ambitions conflict with public teachings?
  • What safeguards can prevent such hypocrisy?
A Different Perspective

The critique may overlook systemic pressures that limit scholars' actions.

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