I prefer to be a dreamer among the humblest, with visions to be realized, than lord among those without dreams and desires.
Khalil GibranRead
Each thing that exists remains forever, and that very existence of existence is proof of its eternity. But without that realization, which is the knowledge of perfect being, man would never know whether there was existence or non-existence. If eternal existence is altered, then it must become more beautiful; and if it disappears, it must return with more sublime image; and if it sleeps, it must dream of a better awakening, for it is ever greater upon its rebirth.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the eternal nature of existence and the importance of realization for understanding it.
Khalil Gibran's quote emphasizes the concept of eternal existence and how our understanding or realization of this existence shapes our perception of reality. He suggests that existence is inherently beautiful and transformative, and even in states of dormancy or non-being, there is a potential for rebirth and improvement, which invites contemplation on the nature of being and the cycle of existence.
Themes
EternityExistenceRealizationRebirthPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a philosophical discussion about the nature of reality.
More from Khalil Gibran
All quotes →Be patient, for it is from doubt that knowledge is born.
Khalil GibranRead
Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother.
Khalil GibranRead
God made Truth with many doors to welcome every believer who knocks on them.
Khalil GibranRead
Happiness is a vine that takes root and grows within the heart, never outside it.
Khalil GibranRead
Solitude has soft, silky hands, but with strong fingers it grasps the heart and makes it ache with sorrow.
Khalil GibranRead
Similar quotes
Eternity is not an everlasting flux of time, but time is as a short parenthesis in a long period.
John DonneRead
War is the father and king of all: some he has made gods, and some men; some slaves and some free.
HeraclitusRead
Tis so much to be a king, that he only is so by being so.
Michel De MontaigneRead
And what do you wish?' he said at last. 'That what should be shall be,' she answered.
J. R. R. TolkienRead
The being without an opinion is so painful to human nature that most people will leap to a hasty opinion rather than undergo it.
Walter BagehotRead
We need to incorporate that age-old concept of redemption into the work that we do in the criminal justice system in California.
Kamala HarrisRead