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
Truth quenches untruth, love quenches anger, self-suffering quenches violence. This eternal rule is a rule not for saints only but for all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the power of truth, love, and self-suffering to counter negative emotions and actions.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote illustrates a profound belief in the transformative power of truth, love, and personal sacrifice. It suggests that these virtues can effectively extinguish various forms of negativity, such as untruth, anger, and violence. Importantly, Gandhi asserts that this principle is universal and applicable to everyone, not just those who are considered holy or virtuous. In essence, it invites all individuals to adopt these ideals in their daily lives to foster peace and harmony.
Themes
TruthLoveSelf-SufferingAngerViolencePeace
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on conflict resolution, one could use this quote to emphasize non-violent approaches.
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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The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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
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