To forgive is not to forget. The merit lies in loving in spite of the vivid knowledge that one that must be loved is not a friend. There is not merit in loving an enemy when you forget him for a friend.
Mahatma GandhiRead
The strength to kill is not essential for self-defence; one ought to have the strength to die.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True strength lies not in the ability to harm others, but in the courage to sacrifice oneself for a greater cause.
This quote by Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes that the true measure of strength is not the capability to kill or inflict harm, but rather the moral courage to face death for one's beliefs and principles. It reflects Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and the idea that in conflicts, the ability to endure suffering and stand firm in one's convictions is far more powerful than the willingness to engage in violence or aggression.
Themes
StrengthCourageSelf-DefenseSacrificeNon-Violence
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on moral courage, one could use this quote to inspire others to stand up for their beliefs.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes βLove never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
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Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
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The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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The devotion of such titans of spirit as Lenin to an Ideal must bear fruit. The nobility of his selflessness will be an example through centuries to come, and his Ideal will reach perfection.
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