Right, it's not what the emperor said but how he formulated it. Mr. Ratzinger could just as easily have explained what the quote was meant to illustrate in clear, concrete language. He is a very smart man. Can you believe it: a fifteenth century BYZANTINE emperor! He knows that as 'the representative of god on earth' his every word is examined. He also knows that by hiding behind a distant political figure he can make a statement which appeals to the basest instincts of his base while not being directly responsible for it. He throws up balloon: will it float? Evidently it does. Ratzinger very cheekily excuses himself for such a 'brusque' remark which he has very carefully considered and weighed for content and effect. Make no mistake about it, he says nothing lightly and casually. This man has always walked away from the light at the end of the tunnel.