Shauna Holdaways Analysis of "Zeal Without Knowledge"

Shauna Holdaway
Writing 150
Dr. Kerry Spencer
15 March 2012
The Challenge of Mental Limitations

Born with the natural right to agency, each human individual has always had to live a life full of choices and prioritizing. We all must naturally give up certain opportunities at the cost of obtaining something we determine to be better or worth it. In Hugh Nibley's article "Zeal Without Knowledge," he discusses the phenomenon that humans can "think of only one thing at a time" (207). Because of this limitation, people are required to choose from a vast selection of thoughts and impressions what they will focus their time and attention on. With so many potentially worthwhile subjects to occupy our minds, the difficulty lies in simply choosing which are the most important. Nibley uses a juxtaposition of zeal and knowledge, a resonating perspective through religious theory, and an infectiously witty tone to emphasize his claim that each individual must take great care in choosing where his thoughts and priorities lie.

Throughout his article, Nibley compares the qualities of zeal and knowledge, describing their individual significance yet vital dependence upon one another to effectively direct the mind of any person. Nibley claims that "the substance of thought is knowledge" (209). Therefore, the mind cannot even begin to function without a foundation of knowledge to draw from. This claim of Nibley's allots an enormous weight of importance to the subject of knowledge. He even asserts that the mind not only needs knowledge to function, but that it must be constantly expanding as well. He then goes on to introduce the topic of zeal. He declares that the zeal within a person is what will ultimately force them to take any action, that "zeal is the engine that drives the whole vehicle" (210). Just as he proved the importance of knowledge as a solid base, he likewise argued that zeal is the important instigator that needs to present in every individual. Nibley's juxtaposition of these two traits created a clear formula for readers to understand that both zeal and knowledge hold equal importance. He then goes on to complete the formula with the solution that zeal cannot have any effect if knowledge is not present and vice-versa. His use of strategic structure emphasizes the dependence that these two qualities require of each other. He even addresses the opposite side by acknowledging the evils that can come from each of these qualities. He claims that knowledge, when unrestrained and void of purpose, begins to create a sense of pride within a person that ultimately leads to destruction of thought. He goes on to again use a juxtaposition to show that zeal also, can have no valuable effects without a basis of knowledge. His address of the positive and negative qualities of both zeal and knowledge clearly depict their interdependence and emphasize their importance in the process of cultivating one's mind for success.

Nibley then furthers his discussion of zeal and knowledge through the viewpoint of religion. He alludes to many scriptural principles and aids his argument with the integration of quotes from the prophets of old to validate his case and ignite his claim with purpose. He begins by refuting the common misconception that God is subject to the same limitations that we are, and then addresses the question that most naturally follows: If God has no end to his mental capacities, then "why this crippling limitation on our thoughts if we are God's children?"

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*My draft is obviously not finished, but here is what I have so far, so tell me what you think and if I'm on the right track!