Justice versus conscience

“Struggling like a devil in a holy water basin” is an idiom or metaphor that conveys a sense of being in a difficult or challenging situation despite being in a supposedly safe or favorable environment. The key points or meanings of this phrase can include:

1. Intense struggle: The phrase “struggling like a devil” implies a strenuous, arduous, or desperate effort to overcome obstacles or difficulties. It suggests that the struggle is fierce, difficult, and persistent.

2. Contradiction or irony: The phrase “in a holy water basin” adds a contradictory or ironic element to the expression. Holy water is often associated with purity, sanctity, or protection, as it is used in religious rituals to bless or cleanse. However, the devil is often considered evil or malevolent, and the image of a devil struggling in a holy water basin suggests a clash or incongruity between opposing forces.

3. Frustration or futility: The phrase may also convey a sense of frustration or futility in the struggle, as the devil is typically depicted as a powerful and cunning being, but is unable to prevail in the holy water basin, which is supposed to be a safe place for him. It can indicate a feeling of being trapped, helpless, or unable to make progress despite putting in effort.

4. Paradox or paradoxical situation: The phrase can highlight a paradoxical or contradictory situation where one finds themselves in a seemingly favorable or advantageous position, but still faces significant challenges or difficulties. It can also point to a situation where one’s actions or efforts are self-defeating or counterproductive, leading to a struggle despite being in a supposedly advantageous position.

Overall, the key points of “struggling like a devil in a holy water basin” revolve around the idea of intense struggle, contradiction, frustration, futility, and paradox in a seemingly favorable or safe environment.