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.
We have no evidence whatsoever that the soul perishes with the body.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that there is no proof that our essence or soul dies when our physical body does.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote reflects on the profound philosophical question regarding the existence of the soul and its relationship to the body. It implies an exploration of life after death and challenges the notion that our consciousness ends with our physical demise. By stating that there is no evidence for the perishing of the soul, Gandhi invites us to consider the possibility of an enduring essence that transcends physical existence, prompting deeper thought about our beliefs regarding life, death, and what lies beyond.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on life after death at a philosophy club meeting, this quote could be used to highlight differing beliefs about the soul.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes βLove never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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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If you would enjoy real freedom, you must be the slave of Philosophy.
Fire. God of Abraham, God of Isaac, God of Jacob, not of the philosophers and the scholars. I will not forget thy word. Amen.
Our attitude towards immigration reflects our faith in the American ideal. We have always believed it possible for men and women who start at the bottom to rise as far as the talent and energy allow. Neither race nor place of birth should affect their chances.