God Quote by Josh Ruxin
““Rwandans have a funny relationship with God, which they convey through a story that anyone can tell you: "God worked very hard for six days creating the heavens and the earth. But on the seventh day, he needed a break, so he picked Rwanda as the place to take a much needed sleep. God sleeps in Rwanda, then keeps busy at work everywhere else." This story has two meanings: The negative take is that God is not in Rwanda to protect you or answer your prayers, that He comes here only to shut His eyes. The other interpretation of "God sleeps in Rwanda" is that the country is a mile up, cooler and more beautiful than any other place, and so, naturally, this would be where God comes when He is not punching the clock. His favorite place. It was the second interpretation that we needed to believe.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: “God Sleeps in Rwanda”, Josh Ruxin, 2018
The story uses humor to convey that Rwanda is a place of divine rest, suggesting both vulnerability and exceptional beauty, encouraging belief in its unique value.
In simple terms: Rwanda is portrayed as a divine retreat, highlighting its special status.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and cherish Rwanda’s distinct qualities.
Themes
culture
humor
spirituality
national identity
Mood
hopeful
proud
Type
cultural
inspirational
reflective
When to use this quote
- tourism promotion
- national branding
- cultural education
- spiritual reflection
Key Concepts
mythmaking
symbolism
place attachment
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “God sleeps” symbolize for you?
- How can this narrative shape perception of Rwanda?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex realities; could be misinterpreted.
![“We have a chance here to prove that [Rwanda], a country that almost slaughtered itself out of existence, can practice reconciliation, reorganize itself, focus on tomorrow and provide comprehensive, quality health care with minimal outside help.” quote by William J. Clinton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2aa/william-j-clinton-302_activism_we-have-a-chance-here-to-prove-that-rwan_2653938.jpg)
