The good and the wise teachers of the university then no longer pointed on to the One Who should come: rather they took up His words and His life, taught them and expounded them, and ever found new meaning and new teaching there, and pointed ever up to Him.
Till at last there arose another teacher, who, learning something of what the Great Teacher had taught, began to think that because he knew a little he was all-wise—yes, even wiser than He. Men gathered to listen to his teaching. And what did he proclaim? Something of the truths of the Great Teacher, with a difference. And what was that difference? No thoughtful man has ever yet been found to maintain that his teaching was more sublime, but it was easier.
Had the Great Teacher taught that there was one God? So did he—the later teacher—but his God was more of a despot than a Father.
Had the Great Teacher taught a Heaven of spiritual life? He promised a Heaven too, but one of carnal pleasure.
Had the Great Teacher taught men to worship in spirit and in truth? He taught prayer, but he added that a prayer at Mecca was worth more than elsewhere.
Had the Great Teacher taught men to pray without ceasing? He taught men to pray five times a day.
Had the Great Teacher called men to be pure in heart? He made provision for men unwilling to be pure.
Had the Great Teacher raised Woman's position? He gave her certain rights over property, but no honour.
Had the Great Teacher sent his followers out to preach the kingdom and heal the sick? He sent his followers on a similar errand, by the method of raiding caravans.
Had the Great Teacher taught men to rule their bodies? He only forbade his followers to take strong drink.