To forgive is not to forget. The merit lies in loving in spite of the vivid knowledge that one that must be loved is not a friend. There is not merit in loving an enemy when you forget him for a friend.
Mahatma GandhiRead
I do believe that, where there is only a choice between cowardice and violence, I would advise violence. I would rather have India resort to arms in order to defend her honour than that she should, in a cowardly manner, become or remain a helpless witness to her own dishonour. But I believe that nonviolence is infinitely superior to violence, forgiveness is more manly than punishment.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of standing up against oppression and dishonour, advocating for a courageous response rather than cowardice, while ultimately valuing nonviolence and forgiveness.
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi addresses the moral dilemma of responding to violence against one's dignity. He argues that in situations where one must choose between cowardice and violence, it is better to choose the latter to defend one's honour. However, he profoundly believes that nonviolence is the superior path and that forgiveness represents true strength. This reflects Gandhi's philosophy of standing firm against injustice while maintaining a commitment to peace and compassion.
Themes
CowardiceViolenceNonviolenceHonourForgiveness
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for civil rights, emphasizing the need to stand against oppression.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
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Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
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The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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The devotion of such titans of spirit as Lenin to an Ideal must bear fruit. The nobility of his selflessness will be an example through centuries to come, and his Ideal will reach perfection.
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