RELATIONS OF OLD TESTAMENT SCIENCE 563 



claim. We strive, in fact, to understand the remarkable, the unique, 

 appearance of the religion of Israel as such in its historical devel- 

 opment; we are determined to overlook no characteristic which is 

 likely to distinguish it, and to make it more possible of comprehen- 

 sion. That this task offers the greatest difficulties does not terrify 

 us; that it brings us into contact with so many branches of science 

 makes us proud. But we need many associates, and they must be of 

 very differing qualities. The compass of the work is so great that it 

 demands division of labor. No one should be accused of one-sidedness 

 if he carefully tends his own particular part of this great field, and 

 really promotes our work. But let no superficial dilettantism find 

 place among us. As we older men slowly withdraw from the scene 

 of action, may the men of the new generation escape the danger of 

 scattering their forces, and strive with success to concentrate on every 

 point, however small, the most thorough possible scholarship! 



