ABSTRACT
Zarathustra's leave of the magician during the morning marks Nietzsche's theological shift in Zarathustra IV, as the next three figures he meets on his path are the last pope, the ugliest man, and the voluntary beggar. Zarathustra notices the last pope sitting on the side of the path after leaving the magician. According to the pope, a young God from the Orient was vengeful and built himself a hell to amuse himself; he became old and finally choked on his pity. The pope recognizes the prophet's honesty, noting that he himself possesses not only "hands" but also eyes and a mouth. The last pope claims spiritual sovereignty over Zarathustra at the ass festival— and apparently has the final say as the most pious of those who believe. Nietzsche's ironical use of the customary symbol of kissing the pope's hand first takes place during his meeting with the last pope on the path during the day.
