Let me tell you something that we Israelis have against Moses. He took us 40 years through the desert in order to bring us to the one spot in the Middle East that has no oil!
Golda MeirRead
A leader who doesn't hesitate before he sends his nation into battle is not fit to be a leader.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A truly responsible leader thoughtfully considers the implications of sending others into conflict.
Golda Meir emphasizes the moral obligation of leaders to deeply reflect on the consequences of their decisions, particularly when it comes to matters of war. A leader who is quick to engage in battle without hesitation demonstrates a lack of prudent judgment and understanding of the grave responsibilities they bear towards their people and society.
Themes
LeadershipResponsibilityWarDecision-MakingMorality
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about ethical leadership, one might reference this quote to emphasize the weight of decision-making in governance.
More from Golda Meir
All quotes βWe don't thrive on military acts. We do them because we have to, and thank God we are efficient.
Golda MeirRead
It isn't really important to decide when you are very young just exactly what you want to become when you grow up. It is much more important to decide on the way you want to live. If you are going to be honest with yourself and honest with your friends, if you are going to get involved in causes which are good for others, not only for yourselves, then it seems to me that that is sufficient, and maybe what you will be is only a matter of chance.
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It is true we have won all our wars, but we have paid for them. We don't want victories anymore.
Golda MeirRead
It's no accident many accuse me of conducting public affairs with my heart instead of my head. Well, what if I do?.. Those who don't know how to weep with their whole heart don't know how to laugh either.
Golda MeirRead
Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life.
Golda MeirRead
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