Seeking is a necessary preliminary to finding, and one who cannot endure the hardship of inquiry cannot expect to harvest the fruit of knowledge.
John Of SalisburyRead
We are like dwarfs sitting on the shoulders of giants. We see more, and things that are more distant, than they did, not because our sight is superior or because we are taller than they, but because they raise us up, and by their great stature add to ours.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We benefit from the knowledge and achievements of those who came before us.
This quote highlights the importance of building on the knowledge and accomplishments of previous generations. It suggests that our own understanding and perspective are enhanced by the contributions of others, symbolically represented as 'giants' whose achievements elevate our own standing and insight.
Themes
KnowledgeLegacyGrowthLearningGratitude
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about innovation, emphasize how current advancements are built upon the discoveries of past scientists.
More from John Of Salisbury
All quotes →Similar quotes
Putting is like wisdom - partly a natural gift and partly the accumulation of experience.
Arnold PalmerRead
They say best men are molded out of faults, And, for the most, become much more the better For being a little bad
William ShakespeareRead
Do not base your life on the likings and dislikings or whims of others. What you are in life - whether you enjoy or suffer - it is your own responsibility. Be regular in your meditation and do not postpone for a later date your striving for God consciousness.
Maharishi Mahesh YogiRead
Perhaps losing integrity with yourself is the greatest stress of all, far more hurtful to us than competition, time pressure, or lack of respect. Our vitality is rooted in our integrity. When we do not live in one piece, our life force becomes divided. Becoming separated from our authentic values may weaken us.
Rachel Naomi RemenRead
Excellence encourages one about life generally; it shows the spiritual wealth of the world.
George EliotRead
Never bear more than one trouble at a time. Some people bear three kinds - all they have had, all they have now, and all they expect to have.
Edward Everett HaleRead