Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The fragrance of sandalwood and rosebay does not travel far. But the fragrance of virtue rises to the heavens.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Virtue has a higher and more lasting impact than material qualities.
This quote by Gautama Buddha highlights the idea that while physical attributes or material possessions may have limited reach and influence, true virtue and moral character have the power to uplift and resonate on a universal level. The fragrance of virtue is likened to a spiritual essence that transcends the physical world and connects with a higher realm, suggesting that living a virtuous life bears significant importance beyond mere appearances or transient pleasures.
Themes
VirtueFragranceSpiritualityInfluenceCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on ethics, I referenced this quote to emphasize the importance of moral integrity.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes βA kind man who makes good use of wealth is rightly said to possess a great treasure; but the miser who hoards up his riches will have no profit.
Gautama BuddhaRead
There are having flowers in Spring, breezes in Summer, moon in Autumn, snows in Winter. If there is nothing worrying over you, it will be the best seasons at all times.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Make an island of yourself, make yourself your refuge; there is no other refuge. Make truth your island, make truth your refuge; there is no other refuge.
Gautama BuddhaRead
When a wise man is advised of his errors, he will reflect on and improve his conduct. When his misconduct is pointed out, a foolish man will not only disregard the advice but rather repeat the same error.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The tongue like a sharp knife ... Kills without drawing blood.
Gautama BuddhaRead
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