It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.

Summary

The quote suggests that there is an inherent contradiction in society's stance towards murder. While killing is universally condemned and punishable, the quote points out the hypocrisy in selectively pardoning large-scale killings, such as war or acts committed by powerful individuals, often glorified and justified with considerable pomp and societal support. It highlights how society often overlooks or rationalizes mass killings that serve its own agendas, raising questions on the consistency and underlying moral principles guiding social judgments and punishments.