When the belly is empty, the body becomes spirit; and when it is full, the spirit becomes body.
SaadiRead
An enemy to whom you show kindness becomes your friend, excepting lust, the indulgence of which increases its enmity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Showing kindness to an enemy can turn them into a friend, but lust can worsen the situation.
This quote by Saadi highlights the transformative power of kindness in relationships. It suggests that acts of kindness can dissolve animosity and forge friendships even with those who may initially seem like enemies. However, it warns that certain indulgences, such as lust, can complicate and worsen these dynamics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of one's intentions and actions.
Themes
KindnessFriendshipEnemiesRelationshipsLove
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about conflict resolution, one might use this quote to illustrate how kindness can change perceptions.
More from Saadi
All quotes βA friend whom you have been gaining during your whole life, you ought not to be displeased with in a moment. A stone is many years becoming a ruby - take care that you do not destroy it in an instant against another stone.
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The bad fortune of the good turns their faces up to heaven; the good fortune of the bad bows their heads down to the earth.
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However much you study, you cannot know without action. A donkey laden with books is neither an intellectual nor a wise man. Empty of essence, what learning has he whether upon him is firewood or book?
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Ants, fighting together, will vanquish the lion.
SaadiRead
Human beings are members of a whole,_x000D_ In creation of one essence and soul._x000D_ If one member is afflicted with pain,_x000D_ Other members uneasy will remain._x000D_ If you have no sympathy for human pain,_x000D_ The name of human you cannot retain.
SaadiRead
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