Leopards break into the temple and drink to the dregs what is in the sacrificial pitchers; this is repeated over and over again; finally it can be calculated in advance, and it becomes a part of the ceremony.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Destructive forces can become so routine that they turn into accepted tradition.
- In plain terms
- Bad things happening repeatedly become normal part of the ritual.
- What can you take from it?
- Routine can mask destruction.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What harms have you normalized?
- Is tradition always good?
Another view
Not all repetition is destructive.
More from Franz Kafka
If it had been possible to build the Tower of Babel without climbing it, it would have been permitted.
Permalink to quote #14 From the true antagonist illimitable courage is transmitted to you.
Permalink to quote #16 A cage went in search of a bird.
Permalink to quote #13
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