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
Hate the sin and not the sinner' is a precept which, though easy enough to understand, is rarely practiced, and that is why the poison of hatred spreads in the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of separating one's actions from their identity, promoting love and understanding rather than hatred.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote highlights the common struggle of humanity to distinguish between a person's negative actions and the person themselves. While it is straightforward to say we should hate harmful behaviors or 'sins,' practicing this precept is challenging, leading to widespread hatred that poisons society. By advocating for love towards individuals despite their wrongdoings, Gandhi encourages a more compassionate and understanding approach to addressing moral issues.
Themes
HateLoveForgivenessUnderstandingCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of forgiveness in a community meeting.
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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