Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The virtues, like the Muses, are always seen in groups. A good principle was never found solitary in any breast.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Virtues are often found together, and one does not possess a virtue in isolation.
This quote by Gautama Buddha highlights the interconnectedness of virtues and suggests that they are best understood and appreciated when they are present alongside one another. Just as the Muses in Greek mythology inspire creativity, virtues collectively shape an individual's character and moral compass, implying that a true moral principle is never isolated but rather part of a greater whole.
Themes
VirtuesMoralInterconnectednessCharacterGroups
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about teamwork and collaboration.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes βA 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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