It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
Daisaku IkedaRead
The eyes of a poet discover in each person a unique and irreplaceable humanity. While arrogant intellect seeks to control and manipulate the world, the poetic spirit bows with reverence before its mysteries.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the contrasting perspectives of poets and intellectuals regarding humanity and understanding the world.
Daisaku Ikeda's quote highlights the special ability of poets to recognize the inherent value and uniqueness of every individual, promoting empathy and appreciation for humanity. In contrast, it criticizes the arrogance of intellectualism that tends to dominate and manipulate, suggesting that true wisdom lies in humility and a deep respect for the complexities and mysteries of life.
Themes
PoetHumanityIntellectMysterySpiritReverence
In practice
Example use cases
During a literary discussion, to emphasize the depth of understanding that poets have about humanity.
More from Daisaku Ikeda
All quotes →There’s no need for us to be held back by the past or how things have been so far. The important thing is what seeds we are sowing now for the future.
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True love should be transformative; a process that amplifies our capacity to cherish not just one person but all people. It can make us stronger, lift us higher and deepen us as individuals. Only to the extent that we polish ourselves now can we hope to develop wonderful bonds of the heart in the future.
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Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, or philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
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Just as a diamond can only be polished by another diamond, it is only through genuine, all-out engagement with others that people can polish their character, and help each other to reach greater heights.
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Creating harmony amidst diversity is a fundamental issue of the twenty-first century. While celebrating the unique characteristics of different peoples and cultures, we have to create solidarity on the level of our common humanity, our common life. Without such solidarity, there will be no future for the human race. Diversity should not beget conflict in the world, but richness.
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