Meaning: Karl Kraus, an Austrian writer and journalist, was known for his satirical and critical commentary on society and culture. The quote "Christian morality prefers remorse to precede lust, and then lust not to follow" reflects Kraus's astute observation of the moral values and teachings within Christianity. In this quote, Kraus highlights a key aspect of Christian morality that emphasizes the importance of remorse and self-reflection as a means to temper and control one's desires.

In essence, Kraus suggests that according to Christian morality, it is preferable for individuals to experience feelings of remorse or guilt before succumbing to their desires, particularly those related to lust or carnal impulses. This notion aligns with the Christian emphasis on self-discipline, self-control, and the avoidance of sinful behavior. By placing an emphasis on remorse preceding lust, Kraus implies that Christian morality values introspection and moral consciousness as a means of regulating one's actions and impulses.

The second part of the quote, "and then lust not to follow," further underscores the idea that Christian morality promotes the restraint of lustful desires. This notion is deeply rooted in the teachings of Christianity, which often advocate for the moderation of worldly pleasures and the prioritization of spiritual well-being over carnal indulgence. By suggesting that lust should not follow remorse, Kraus highlights the Christian ideal of resisting temptations and maintaining virtuous conduct.

The quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the conflict between human desires and religious morality. In many religious traditions, including Christianity, the struggle to resist temptations and adhere to moral principles is a central theme. Kraus's quote encapsulates this struggle by presenting a moral framework that acknowledges the existence of human desires but emphasizes the importance of exercising restraint and seeking repentance when those desires arise.

From a broader perspective, Kraus's quote can be seen as a reflection on the complexities of human nature and the perennial tension between instinctual impulses and moral values. The emphasis on remorse preceding lust speaks to the human capacity for introspection and moral agency, while the call for lust not to follow underscores the ongoing struggle to reconcile our innate desires with the ethical standards espoused by religious and moral teachings.

In conclusion, Karl Kraus's quote "Christian morality prefers remorse to precede lust, and then lust not to follow" offers a thought-provoking insight into the moral framework of Christianity and the broader themes of human nature and moral conduct. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to navigate the complexities of desire, remorse, and ethical behavior within the context of religious and moral teachings.