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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.” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
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“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.”

Friedrich Nietzsche

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.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question the origins of revered customs.

Themes

culture tradition history reverence identity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical cultural

When to use this quote

  • rituals
  • family customs
  • national holidays
  • institutional practices

Key Concepts

symbolism collective memory social constructs

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we venerate certain traditions?
  • What value remains in ancient practices?
A Different Perspective

Blind reverence can hinder progress; traditions may be outdated.

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