This is one of their [the Christians'] rules. Let no man that is learned, wise, or prudent come among us: but if they be unlearned, or a child, or an idiot, let him freely come. So they openly declare that none but the ignorant, and those devoid of understanding, slaves, women, and children, are fit disciples for the God they worship.
Interpretation
The quote critiques the exclusion of learned individuals from religious discourse, suggesting that ignorance is favored over wisdom.
Aulus Cornelius Celsus highlights a paradox within certain religious practices, where the wisdom and knowledge of learned individuals are dismissed in favor of those deemed less intelligent or uneducated. This raises questions about the nature of belief and the value placed on understanding versus blind faith. Celsus critiques the idea that only the ignorant and vulnerable are valued in religious contexts, suggesting a troubling stance on intellectual engagement within the community of believers.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discourse on the role of education in religion during a philosophy class.
Live in rooms full of light. Avoid heavy food. Be moderate in the drinking of wine. Take massage, baths, exercise, and gymnastics. Fight insomnia with gentle rocking or the sound of running water. Change surroundings and take long journeys. Strictly avoid frightening ideas. Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements. Listen to music.
Of all the preposterous assumptions of humanity over humanity, nothing exceeds most of the criticisms made on the habits of the poor by the well-housed, well- warmed, and well-fed.
Our best built certainties are but sand-houses and subject to damage from any wind of doubt that blows
The New Testament writers speak as if Christ's achievement in rising from the dead was the first event of its kind in the whole history of the universe. He is the 'first fruits,' the pioneer of life,' He has forced open a door that has been locked since the death of the first man. He has met, fought, and beaten the King of Death. Everything is different because He has done so.
Actually, there is only one first question of government, and it is How should we live? or What kind of people do we want our citizens to be?
Nothing teaches us about the preciousness of the Creator as much as when we learn the emptiness of everything else.
I think about never losing my voice, never giving in, never selling out, always keeping black, always sticking to the street. Staying neighborhood and not Hollywood.
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