In "The Shadow Rising" by Robert Jordan, the quote emphasizes the danger of choosing a protector without considering potential consequences. It suggests that relying on a powerful figure, like a lion, may lead to unwanted outcomes, akin to trading one threat for another. The imagery of being consumed highlights the inherent risks in making such choices.

This perspective encourages readers to think critically about the nature of protection and loyalty. It conveys that one must be cautious when selecting allies, as they might bring about unforeseen challenges that could be just as harmful as the original threat they sought to defend against.