Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Though thousand times a thousand in battle one may conquer, yet should one conquer just oneself, one is the greatest conqueror.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True victory lies in mastering oneself rather than defeating others.
This quote by Gautama Buddha emphasizes the idea that the greatest challenge and achievement lies in self-control and self-mastery. While winning battles or conflicts can bring temporary glory, true greatness is found in conquering one’s own desires, fears, and shortcomings, leading to inner peace and enlightenment.
Themes
Self-MasteryConquestInner PeaceSelf-ControlGreatness
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal development.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes →A 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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