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Anger and hatred are the materials from which hell is made.
Nhat Hanh
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Anger and hatred create suffering and turmoil in life, much like the torment depicted in hell.

In this quote by Nhat Hanh, he emphasizes that anger and hatred are not just negative emotions; they are the very substances that create a personal hell. These emotions lead to suffering, discord, and chaos in our lives and the lives of others, illustrating the importance of cultivating love and compassion instead.

Themes

AngerHatredSufferingHellLoveCompassion

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be shared in a meditation group to emphasize the importance of letting go of negative emotions.

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Do not live with a vocation that is harmful to humans and nature. Do not invest in companies that deprive others of their chance to live. Select a vocation that helps realise your ideal of compassion.
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Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I am committed to cultivating compassion and learning ways to protect the lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to support any act of killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life.
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The therapist does not treat patients by simply giving them another set of beliefs. He or she tries to help them see which kinds of ideas and beliefs have led to their suffering. Many patients want to get rid of their painful feelings, but they do not want to get rid of their beliefs, the viewpoints that are the very roots of their feelings.
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Scientists tell us that we have enough technology to save our planet. . . . Yet we don't take advantage of this new technology. . . . The technological has to work hand-in-hand with the spiritual. Our spiritual life is the element that can bring about the energies of peace, calm, brotherhood, understanding, and compassion. Without that, our planet doesn't stand a chance.
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