Man, as long as he lives, is immortal. One minute before his death he shall be immortal. But one minute later, God wins.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote contemplates the nature of mortality and the inevitability of death. It suggests that while human beings are mortal and destined to face their mortality, there is a sense of immortality that resides in the legacy and impact we leave behind. However, ultimately, death is a force that prevails over human existence.
The quote reflects on the transient nature of human life. It acknowledges that throughout our lives, we are subject to the passage of time, and in that sense, our mortality is evident. Yet, it posits that within the realm of human existence, we can achieve a sense of immortality through the lasting effects of our actions, contributions, and influence on others.
The phrase "one minute before his death he shall be immortal" suggests that even in our final moments, there is a potential for a sense of eternal significance, whether it be through the impact we have on others or the legacy we leave behind. It speaks to the idea that our actions and the memories we create can continue to reverberate in the lives of those who remain.
However, the quote concludes by asserting that "one minute later, God wins," implying that death ultimately prevails over human existence. It alludes to the notion that no matter the legacy we leave or the immortality we may attain in the eyes of others, death is an inevitable and ultimate reality that supersedes human endeavors.
In essence, this quote invites contemplation on the fleeting nature of human life and the potential for immortality through our actions and influence. It serves as a reminder of the impermanence of existence and the significance of making the most of the time we have, while recognizing the ultimate power of mortality.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Man, as long as he lives, is immortal. One minute before his death he shall be immortal. But one minute later, God wins." was said by Elie Wiesel (Bio / Quotes). Elie Wiesel was a Romanian-born Jewish writer and Holocaust survivor who became an influential voice for human rights and social justice.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
A poignant historical example that illustrates the quote, “Man, as long as he lives, is immortal. One minute before his death he shall be immortal. But one minute later, God wins,” can be found in the life of Alexander the Great.
Alexander III of Macedon, commonly known as Alexander the Great, was a figure of immense ambition and power. His empire stretched from Greece to Egypt and into the Indian subcontinent, making him one of history’s most successful conquerors. His legend grew larger with each victory, and his life was a testament to human might and strategic genius.
In his final days, Alexander’s mortality became starkly apparent. Despite his legendary status and unprecedented conquests, he fell ill with a fever at the age of 32. While he was still alive, Alexander's aura of invincibility seemed to defy the boundaries of human limitation. His very presence inspired awe and fear. However, as his health deteriorated, the reality of his human vulnerability became evident.
In the hour before his death, Alexander’s immortality was still perceived in the eyes of his followers and within the context of his grand accomplishments. But once he passed away, it was as if a powerful force had claimed him, demonstrating the stark transition from human strength to the inevitable dominion of mortality or, as the quote implies, a divine victory over human existence.
This historical example underscores the idea that no matter how powerful or influential one might be, the transition from life to death is abrupt and beyond human control. It is a reminder that ultimate power, in the form of death, belongs to a higher force, or in a broader sense, is an inherent part of the natural order.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
The quote can be applied in real life by reflecting on the transient nature of human achievements and the certainty of mortality. For instance, consider the life of a successful entrepreneur who builds a thriving company and becomes a prominent figure in their industry. While this person is alive, their accomplishments and influence seem boundless. They may appear to be almost untouchable, their legacy secure in the annals of their field.
However, as this entrepreneur approaches the end of their life, the reality of their mortality becomes unavoidable. Despite their success and the admiration they command, the moment they pass away, their influence becomes limited to the memories of those who knew them and the impact they left behind. The divine or ultimate power, in this context, is the undeniable force of death that overshadows human achievements.
In practical terms, this quote can serve as a powerful reminder to remain humble and to appreciate the present moment. It encourages us to acknowledge that while we may strive for greatness and create lasting impacts, our time on earth is limited and subject to forces beyond our control. Embracing this perspective can lead to a more meaningful approach to life, where we value our time, relationships, and contributions without becoming consumed by the quest for immortality or the fear of death.
By recognizing the inevitability of our own mortality, we can focus on what truly matters—living a life that is fulfilling, impactful, and aligned with our values, while understanding that our legacy will be defined not by our immortality but by the quality and authenticity of the life we lead.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
