The small wisdom is like water in a glass: clear, transparent, pure. The great wisdom is like the water in the sea: dark, mysterious, impenetrable.
Rabindranath TagoreRead
The water in a vessel is sparkling; the water in the sea is dark. The small truth has words which are clear; the great truth has great silence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The clarity of small truths contrasts with the complexity of greater truths, which often require silence and reflection.
This quote by Rabindranath Tagore suggests that while smaller, simpler truths are easily articulated and understood, the profound and significant truths of life are often more elusive and can only be grasped through contemplation and silence. The imagery of water in a vessel versus the sea illustrates how superficial perceptions can be clear and straightforward, while the deeper, more substantial truths are vast and rich, leading us to introspect rather than speak.
Themes
TruthSilencePhilosophyReflectionUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a discussion about the nature of understanding in a philosophy class.
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The same stream of life that runs through my veins night and day runs through the world and dances in rhythmic measures. It is the same life that shoots in joy through the dust of the earth in numberless blades of grass and breaks into tumultuous waves of leaves and flowers.
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If you cry because the sun has gone out of your life, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars.
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To be outspoken is easy when you do not wait to speak the complete truth.
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