Ubuntu is very difficult to render into a Western language... It is to say, 'My humanity is caught up, is inextricably bound up, in what is yours.'
Interpretation
Ubuntu expresses the interconnectedness of humanity, highlighting that our personal identities are linked to others.
The concept of Ubuntu, as articulated by Desmond Tutu, emphasizes the idea that an individual's humanity is intertwined with the humanity of others. It suggests that we are not isolated beings but rather part of a larger community, where our well-being and identity are dependent on the well-being and identities of those around us. This philosophy challenges individualism and promotes a sense of collective responsibility and compassion.
In practice
During a community meeting, to emphasize the importance of collaboration and support, one might say, 'As Desmond Tutu said, 'My humanity is caught up, is inextricably bound up, in what is yours.'
The fossil reserves that have already been discovered exceed what can ever be safely used. Yet companies spend half a trillion dollars each year searching for more fuel. They should redirect this money toward developing clean energy solutions
As much as the world has an instinct for evil and is a breeding ground for genocide, holocaust, slavery, racism, war, oppression, and injustice, the world has an even greateer instinct for goodness, rebirth, mercy, beauty, truth, freedom and love.
When the missionaries came to Africa they had the Bible and we had the land. They said 'Let us pray.' We closed our eyes. When we opened them we had the Bible and they had the land.
Children are a wonderful gift. They have an extraordinary capacity to see into the heart of things and to expose sham and humbug for what they are.
Religion is like a knife: you can either use it to cut bread, or stick in someone's back.
Gaza is going to test who believes in the worth of human beings.
You are me, and I am you. Isn't it obvious that we "inter-are"? You cultivate the flower in yourself, so that I will be beautiful. I transform the garbage in myself, so that you will not have to suffer.
Whatever man prays for, he prays for a miracle. Every prayer reduces itself.
We're not thought of in terms of color because we are entertainers. We are there to entertain you not because we are black, white, pink, or green or gay or straight or because we are Catholic or Protestant.
'Men don't cry!' 'Women can't handle money!' What limiting ideas to live with.
Some men think the Earth is round, others think it flat; it is a matter capable of question. But, if it is flat, will the King's command make it round? And, if it is round, will the King's command flatten it?
I thank Thee first because I was never robbed before; second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth because it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.