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A sword in hand is a sure sign of a violent mind; but one does not become non-violent merely by throwing the sword away.
Vinoba Bhave
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Having the means for violence does not indicate a violent mindset, and true non-violence requires more than just the absence of weapons.

This quote reflects on the nature of violence and non-violence, suggesting that simply being without weapons does not equate to being non-violent. It emphasizes that true non-violence is a state of mind and requires a deeper commitment and understanding beyond merely discarding physical instruments of harm.

Themes

Non-ViolenceViolenceMindsetSwordPeace

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a discussion about peace activism.

More from Vinoba Bhave

If a man achieves victory over this body, who in the world can exercise power over him? He who rules himself rules over the whole world.
Vinoba BhaveRead
The river flows at its own sweet will, but the flood is bound in the two banks. If it were not thus bound, its freedom would be wasted.
Vinoba BhaveRead

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