Quote of the Day — Rabbi Zusahia on The Judgement of His Maker

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"Individualism" is not the name of one single thing, and some of the ideas that go under the name of individualism are to be cherished. For example, individualism can mean, simply, the idea that individuality is precious—even sacred.

In the Jewish tradition, one often quotes the parable about Rabbi Zusiah, who, on his death bed, told his grieving disciples that he was terrified of the judgement of his Maker.

"But you are a holy man," the disciples protested.

"You have been as faithful as Abraham; you have been as holy as Moses; you have been as learned as Hillel."

"The Lord is not going to ask me, 'Have you been Abraham?' 'Have you been Moses?' or 'Have you been Hillel?'" was the sage's reply.

"The Lord is going to ask me 'Have you been Zusiah?'"

Quoted from Words and Life by Hilary Putnam, p. 187