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
The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Nonviolence is truly tested when confronted with hostility and contempt.
This quote by Mahatma Gandhi highlights the idea that the effectiveness and strength of nonviolence is not proven in peaceful circumstances, but rather in situations where it faces antagonism and contempt. It suggests that true courage and commitment to nonviolence can only be demonstrated when one stands firm in their beliefs even when faced with hostility from others.
Themes
NonviolenceCourageContemptTestStrength
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about peaceful protests and civil disobedience.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes βLove 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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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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.
Mahatma GandhiRead
Poverty is the worst form of violence.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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