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
Of all the animal creations of God, main is the only animal who has been created in order that he may know his Maker. Man's aim is life is not therefore to add from day to day to his material prospects and to his material possessions, but his predominant calling is, from day to day to come nearer to his own Maker.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that humans are created to seek a connection with God rather than merely accumulating material wealth.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote reflects on the unique position of humans among God's creations, suggesting that the primary purpose of life is spiritual growth and the pursuit of a relationship with the Maker. Instead of focusing on materialistic gains, the true aim of human existence should be to deepen one's understanding of and closeness to God, highlighting a fundamental philosophical view on the essence of life and spiritual fulfillment.
Themes
SpiritualityGodPurposeHumanityMaterialism
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal growth and spirituality, one might say, 'As Gandhi reminds us, our true aim in life is to come closer to our Maker, rather than just accumulating wealth.'
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love 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.
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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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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.
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