And I, the former mystic, was thinking: Yes, man is stronger, greater than God. When Adam and Eve deceived You, You chased them from paradise. When You were displeased by Noah's generation, You brought down the Flood. When Sodom lost Your favour, You caused the heavens to rain down fire and damnation. But look at these men whom You have betrayed, allowing them to be tortured, slaughtered, gassed, and burned, what do they do? They pray before You! They praise Your name!
In this passage from Elie Wiesel's "Night," the former mystic grapples with the concept of human suffering in relation to divine power. The speaker reflects on biblical instances where God acted decisively against humanity, such as the expulsion of Adam and Eve and the destruction of Sodom. These events highlight humanity's vulnerability to divine wrath, showing that when God is displeased, significant consequences follow.
However, the speaker notes a profound contradiction: despite experiencing horrific atrocities, the people continue to cling to their faith, praying and praising God. This raises deep questions about faith, forgiveness, and the nature of divinity amidst human suffering, suggesting that even in the face of overwhelming despair, individuals persist in their worship and devotion.
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