Meaning: The quote "By a Carpenter mankind was made, and only by that Carpenter can mankind be remade" by Desiderius Erasmus, a renowned philosopher of the Renaissance, carries a profound and thought-provoking message about the nature of creation and transformation. Erasmus, a Dutch humanist and theologian, was known for his critical views on the Church and his advocacy for reform. This quote is often interpreted in a religious context, alluding to the idea that humanity was created by a divine Carpenter, and only through a similar divine intervention can humanity be renewed or remade.

The quote can be understood in both a literal and metaphorical sense. In its literal interpretation, it refers to the Christian belief in the creation of mankind by God, who is often symbolically associated with the figure of a Carpenter due to the occupation of Jesus, who is considered the Son of God. This view emphasizes the idea of divine creation and the belief that mankind owes its existence to a higher power.

Metaphorically, the quote can be seen as an allegory for the process of spiritual or moral renewal. It suggests that just as a skilled Carpenter can craft something new out of raw materials, only a divine or transcendent force can bring about a true transformation in mankind. This interpretation aligns with Erasmus's emphasis on the need for inner change and moral improvement, reflecting his humanist values and his critique of the moral failings of society.

Erasmus's quote also resonates with the concept of redemption and the idea of a spiritual rebirth. The notion of being "remade" implies a restoration or revitalization of the human condition, suggesting that only through a divine or transcendent agency can mankind overcome its imperfections and achieve a higher state of being. This theme of redemption and renewal is central to many religious and philosophical traditions, emphasizing the idea of a fundamental change in the human condition.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted in the context of craftsmanship and the idea of creation through skill and labor. The Carpenter is portrayed as a skilled artisan capable of shaping and constructing, implying a sense of purposeful design and intentionality in the act of creation. This aligns with the broader Renaissance emphasis on human agency and creativity, suggesting that mankind, like a crafted work, possesses inherent value and potential for transformation.

In summary, Erasmus's quote "By a Carpenter mankind was made, and only by that Carpenter can mankind be remade" encapsulates profound themes of divine creation, spiritual renewal, and the transformative power of a higher agency. It reflects the Renaissance's preoccupation with humanism, moral improvement, and the relationship between humanity and the divine. Whether interpreted in a religious, metaphorical, or allegorical sense, the quote continues to provoke contemplation and reflection on the nature of creation and transformation.