Awe Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
“Every tradition grows continually more venerable, and the more remote its origins, the more this is lost sight of. The veneration paid the tradition accumulates from generation to generation, until it at last becomes holy and excites awe.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "On the Genealogy of Morals", 1887, Friedrich Nietzsche
Traditions become revered over time, losing original meaning; reverence builds as generations add layers, turning them into sacred symbols.
In simple terms: Traditions gain awe as they age, often forgetting origins.
Recognize and question the origins of revered customs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- rituals
- family customs
- national holidays
- institutional practices
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we venerate certain traditions?
- What value remains in ancient practices?
Blind reverence can hinder progress; traditions may be outdated.