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.
I have nothing new to teach the world. Truth and Non-violence are as old as the hills. All I have done is to try experiments in both on as vast a scale as I could.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Gandhi emphasizes that the principles of truth and non-violence are timeless and have always existed, and his role is to test and apply these principles on a large scale.
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi conveys the idea that his teachings are not revolutionary or new, but rather a deeper exploration of age-old truths such as honesty and peaceful coexistence. He suggests that while the concepts of truth and non-violence are ancient, his commitment to practicing and demonstrating them through various experiments across society serves as a reminder of their importance in achieving harmony and justice. Gandhi's approach shows that applying these foundational values on a grand scale can lead to significant social change.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of non-violence in conflict resolution.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love 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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There is no limit to the ingenuity of man if it is properly and vigorously applied under conditions of peace and justice.
You see, now that trials have come, they have shown that I am NOT a nice child. I was afraid they would. Perhaps... that is what they were sent for... I suppose there MIGHT be good in things, even if we don't see it.
Excellent warriors are not violent.