Divine revelation Quote by Understanding the I Ching THe Wilhelm Lectures on the Book of Changes by Hellmut Wilhelm and Richard
““It may occasion surprise that the decree of a temporal power sufficed to give the classics a position that can be compared in other cultures to the place of sacred scriptures inspired by divine revelation.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: The I Ching Lectures on the Book of Changes
Temporal political authority can grant classical works a sacred status comparable to divine revelation, showing the power of institutions in shaping cultural reverence.
In simple terms: Power can make texts seem sacred.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how authority influences perceived sanctity.
Themes
authority
culture
religion
classics
political power
institutional influence
Mood
analytical
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
Divine revelation:0
I-ching:0
Occult:0
Revelation:0
Sacred Scriptures:0
Surprise Decree:0
Decree Temporal:0
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- media framing
- public discourse
Key Concepts
history
philosophy
theology
sociology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does political power affect cultural values?
- Can authority legitimize any text?
A Different Perspective
Secular endorsement may not replace genuine spiritual significance.
![“[I]t is impossible for those, who believe in the truth of Christianity, as a divine revelation, to doubt, that it is the especial duty of government to foster, and encourage it among all the citizens and subjects. This is a point wholly distinct from that of the right of private judgment in…” quote by Joseph Story](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5c4/joseph-story-11919_believe_i-t-is-impossible-for-those-who-believe_635340.jpg)