🐑 Separating Sheep from Goats 🐐: An Exercise in Discrimination
To “separate the sheep from the goats” is to distinguish the good from the bad or the superior from the inferior. This term comes from the Bible, specifically Matthew 25:32, where Jesus uses an analogy to speak of God’s judgment. Those deemed good are compared to sheep and seated at God’s right hand, while the less fortunate goats find themselves seated at the left. The saying has been in use since at least the fourteenth century, with John Wycliffe explicitly mentioning it: “Schepe that schal be savid schal be on hys rigt honde [sheep that shall be saved shall be on his right hand].”
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Sort the wheat from the chaff: To separate valuable things or people from worthless ones.
- Divide the good from the bad: Simply distinguishing the worthy from the unworthy.
- Hone in on excellence: Focusing on what is superior or of high quality.
Similar Expressions
- Separate the men from the boys: Identify those who are truly competent.
- Draw the line: Make a clear distinction between acceptable and unacceptable practices or behaviors.
- Call the roll: Meticulously verify everyone’s status.
Proverbs & Quotes
- “Quality is not an act, it is a habit.” — Aristotle
- “The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection.” — Thomas Paine
- “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” — Henry David Thoreau
Literary and Cultural References
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Books:
- Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett — A light-hearted and highly entertaining novel that blends the battle between good and evil.
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee — A classic exploration of morality and ethics in a divided world.
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Songs:
- “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson — This song encourages self-reflection to bring forth change.
- “Ironic” by Alanis Morissette — A wry take on life’s unexpected twists and turns.
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Movies:
- Schindler’s List — An emotionally powerful film that separates heroism from complacency.
- The Pursuit of Happyness — The true story of a man’s journey from destitution to success.
Intriguing Quiz Time!
Inspirational Note 📝
Remember, folks, recognizing the good from the bad is often about understanding fine details and making thoughtful judgments. Whether you’re sifting through life’s experiences or individuals, everyone has a role to play, just like sheep and goats. Keep an open heart but a discerning mind.
Happy discerning! ✨
Sincerely, E. P. Epicurious
