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Those born blind cannot see; similarly blind are those in the grip of lust. Proud men have no perception of evil; and those bent on acquiring riches see no sin in their actions.
Chanakya
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Desire and pride can blind individuals to moral evils and true reality.

In this quote, Chanakya highlights how desires such as lust and pride can incapacitate one's ability to recognize the moral implications of their actions. Just as a physically blind person is unable to see the world around them, those consumed by their unchecked impulses are spiritually blind to the wrongs they commit, thus emphasizing the need for self-awareness and moral reflection.

Themes

BlindnessLustPridePerceptionMoralityWealth

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the consequences of unchecked ambition, this quote could serve as a warning.

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Once you start a working on something, don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest.
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Let not a single day pass without your learning a verse, half a verse, or a fourth of it, or even one letter of it; nor without attending to charity, study and other pious activity.
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Whoever imposes severe punishment becomes repulsive to the people; while he who awards mild punishment becomes contemptible. But whoever imposes punishment as deserved becomes respectable.
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One whose knowledge is confined to books and whose wealth is in the possession of others, can use neither his knowledge nor wealth when the need for them arises.
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Quote by Chanakya | QuoteProject