Thus Spoke Zarathustra · Chapter
XXI explained
Zarathustra counsels the brave to reserve themselves for worthier foes, to pass by the rabble and the noise of peoples and traders, and to let the best rule, for where the teaching is different, the best is lacking.
What happens
Zarathustra counsels the brave to reserve themselves for worthier foes, to pass by the rabble and the noise of peoples and traders, and to let the best rule, for where the teaching is different, the best is lacking.
Themes in this chapter
Critique of Herd Morality
Zarathustra condemns the rabble and the trading mentality of peoples, urging the brave to pass by and reserve themselves for worthier foes.
Will to Power and Creation
The best shall rule and will to rule, embodying the will to power as a creative and commanding force.
Characters to notice
- Zarathustra
Addresses his brethren, advising them on bravery, choosing foes, and the rule of the best.
Key passages
“I love the brave: but it is not enough to be a swordsman—one must also know whereon to use swordsmanship!”
Courage alone is insufficient; one must also have the wisdom to choose the right battles.
Zarathustra emphasizes strategic restraint over mere aggression.
“For the worthier foe, O my brethren, shall ye reserve yourselves: therefore must ye pass by many a one—”
Save your strength for opponents who are truly worthy, and ignore the unworthy.
Advocates for selective engagement and self-preservation for greater challenges.
“For, my brethren, the best shall rule, the best also willeth to rule! And where the teaching is different, there—the best is lacking.”
Those who are truly excellent are destined and desire to lead; any other doctrine indicates a deficiency of excellence.
Affirms a natural hierarchy based on quality and will to power.