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
A vow is a purely religious act which cannot be taken in a fit of passion. It can be taken only with a mind purified and composed and with God as witness.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A vow should be made with clear intent and purity of mind, rather than in moments of strong emotion.
Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes that a vow is a serious commitment that should not be taken lightly or impulsively. It requires a state of mental clarity and spiritual intention, as it is a sacred promise that should be made with a pure heart and divine witness, underlining the importance of mindfulness and sincerity in one’s commitments.
Themes
VowCommitmentMindfulnessPurityIntention
In practice
Example use cases
During a wedding ceremony to underline the seriousness of marital vows.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love 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.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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