How close is the relationship between ancient cities and idols - gods made by men - because they bear the same names. ... it is all intended to seduce men, to keep them from carrying out to the end the search implanted in their heart (Rev. 18.23). There man ceases his wandering and doubt, satisfied not to leave the city in his search for genuine meaning and fulfillment. There he finds a world which he thinks fits him, a closed world where all his needs and aspirations are apparently satisfied, a world where he can afford to rest, where he has found certainty. But all the city's seductions, all the satisfactions she offers, are in fact complete slavery for men, and slavery of the most ignominious sort. ... All the inhabitants of the city are destined sooner or later to become prostitutes and members of the proletariat. ... And a remarkable slavery it is since already we see him subject to the power of money and luxury.
The Meaning of the City, Jacques Ellul, p. 54-55
The Meaning of the City, Jacques Ellul, p. 54-55
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