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How often it is that a small action becomes great by its intention. And how often it is that a great action becomes small by its intention.
Abdullah Ibn Mubarak
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The intent behind our actions can elevate or diminish their significance.

This quote highlights the importance of intention behind our actions, suggesting that a seemingly small deed can have a profound impact when done with genuine purpose, while a grand gesture may lose its value if lacking sincere intent. It reminds us to consider the motivations behind our actions, as they define the true worth of what we do.

Themes

IntentionActionSignificancePurposeMeaning

In practice

Example use cases

Using this quote in a motivational speech about the importance of meaningful actions.

More from Abdullah Ibn Mubarak

O man! Prepare yourself for the Hereafter, obey Allah to the extent of your need for Him and anger Him to the extent of your patience in Hell.
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I love the saliheen (pious people) even though I’m not one of them, and I hate the taliheen (evil people) even though I (may be) worse than them.
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The beginning of knowledge is the intention, then listening, then understanding, then action, then preservation, and then spreading it.
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