The history of mankind is the history of our misunderstandings with god, for he doesn't understand us, and we don't understand him.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the fundamental misunderstandings between humanity and the divine, suggesting a gap in communication and comprehension on both sides.
Jose Saramago's quote highlights the complexity of the relationship between humans and the divine, positing that misunderstandings are at the core of this relationship. It suggests that both humans and God grapple with a lack of understanding regarding each other's nature, which has led to a complicated and often conflict-ridden history. By pointing out this mutual misunderstanding, Saramago invites reflection on how humanity perceives divinity and its own existence, urging a deeper exploration of faith and connection.
In practice
In a discussion about faith and belief, one might say, 'As Saramago pointed out, the history of mankind often reflects our misunderstandings with God.'
Why did we become blind, I don't know, perhaps one day we'll find out, Do you want me to tell you what I think, Yes, do, I don't think we did go blind, I think we are blind, Blind but seeing, Blind people who can see, but do not see.
I can't imagine myself outside any kind of social or political involvement. Yes, I'm a writer, but I live in this world, and my writing doesn't exist on a separate level. And if people know who I am and read my books, well, good; that way, if I have something more to say, then everyone benefits.
...you have to leave the island in order to see the island, that we can't see ourselves unless we become free of ourselves, Unless we escape from ourselves you mean, No, that's not the same thing.
Whether we like it or not, the one justification for the existence of all religions is death, they need death as much as we need bread to eat.
With the passage of time, as well as the social evolution and genetic exchange, we ended up putting our conscience in the color of our blood and the salt of our tears.
En ningún momento de la historia, en ningún lugar del planeta, las religiones han servido para que los seres humanos se acerquen unos a los otros. Por el contrario, sólo han servido para separar, para quemar, para torturar. No creo en dios, no lo necesito y además soy buena persona.
Only our concept of time makes it possible for us to speak of the Day of Judgment by that name in reality it is a summary court in perpetual session.
Now even if I die, no one will be so grieved as to do himself bodily harm.
The longest way round is the shortest way home. (Quoting Alexander MacLaren, The Wearied Christ and Other Sermons)
A man builds a fine house; and now he has a master, and a task for life.
To disarm the people... was the best and most effectual way to enslave them.
The system will always be defended by those countless people who have enough intellect to defend but not quite enough to innovate.
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