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About this quote

What does it mean?
Nietzsche argues that the term 'Christianity' is a misunderstanding; historically there was only one Christian who died on the cross.
In plain terms
Christianity as a concept is a misinterpretation; only one actual Christian existed.
What can you take from it?
Distinguish between historical facts and later institutional labels.

Where it applies

  • theology
  • historical study

Putting it to work

  • examining primary sources

Questions to consider

  • What defines a religion beyond its founder?
  • How do institutions shape meaning?

Another view

The claim ignores the development of Christian communities after the crucifixion.

More from Friedrich Nietzsche

  1. Love is a state in which a man sees things most decidedly as they are not.

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  2. As an artistic triumph in psychological corruption ... the Gospels, in fact, stand alone ... Here we are among Jews: this is the first thing to be borne in min…

    Permalink to quote #176
  3. In Christianity neither morality nor religion come into contact with reality at any point.

    Permalink to quote #173

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