We can come to look upon the deaths of our enemies with as much regret as we feel for those of our friends, namely, when we miss their existence as witnesses to our success.
Arthur SchopenhauerRead
Our religions will never at any time take root; the ancient wisdom of the human race will not be supplanted by the events in Galilee. On the contrary, Indian wisdom flows back to Europe, and will produce a fundamental change in our knowledge and thought.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Schopenhauer suggests that traditional religions cannot replace the enduring wisdom of humanity, emphasizing a broader philosophical evolution.
In this quote, Arthur Schopenhauer reflects on the idea that the ancient wisdom accumulated by humanity is more profound and lasting than the changes brought about by specific historical events, such as those in Galilee. He argues that instead of being overshadowed by new religious movements, this ancient wisdom, particularly from Indian philosophy, will flow back into Europe and foster a significant transformation in our understanding of knowledge and thought, highlighting the interconnectedness of human wisdom across cultures.
Themes
WisdomKnowledgePhilosophyChangeReligion
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture about cultural exchange and philosophy, this quote can illustrate the importance of ancient wisdom.
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It would be better if there were nothing. Since there is more pain than pleasure on earth, every satisfaction is only transitory, creating new desires and new distresses, and the agony of the devoured animal is always far greater than the pleasure of the devourer
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