When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
Anthony De MelloRead
The seeker says, "I do not know." That takes honesty. The master says, "I do not know." That takes a mystic's mind that knows things through non-knowing. The disciple says, "I know." That takes ignorance, in the form of borrowed knowledge.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the value of genuine understanding and the humility in admitting one's ignorance.
In this quote, Anthony De Mello contrasts three perspectives on knowledge: the honest admission of not knowing, the mystical awareness that transcends conventional knowledge, and the false certainty found in borrowed knowledge. It emphasizes that true wisdom comes from recognizing the limits of one's understanding and being open to deeper insights beyond superficial information.
Themes
WisdomKnowledgeIgnoranceHonestyUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a classroom discussion about the nature of knowledge, this quote could illustrate the importance of humility in learning.
More from Anthony De Mello
All quotes →Perfect love casts out fear. Where there is love there are no demands, no expectations, no dependency. I do not demand that you make me happy; my happiness does not lie in you. If you were to leave me, I will not feel sorry for myself; I enjoy your company immensely, but I do not cling.
Anthony De MelloRead
The master never seemed to have his fill of gazing at his firstborn child. "What do you want him to be when he grows up?" someone asked. "Outrageously happy," said the master.
Anthony De MelloRead
The genius of a composer is found in the notes of his music; but analyzing the notes will not reveal his genius. The poet's greatness is contained in his words; yet the study of his words will not disclose his inspiration. God reveals himself in creation; but scrutinize creation as minutely as you wish, you will not find God, any more than you will find the soul through careful examination of your body.
Anthony De MelloRead
What is a loving heart? A loving heart is sensitive to the whole of life, to all persons; a loving heart doesn't harden itself to any persons or things.
Anthony De MelloRead
Problems only exist in the human mind.
Anthony De MelloRead
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