Wisdom is nothing but a preparation of the soul, a capacity, a secret art of thinking, feeling and breathing thoughts of unity at every moment of life.
Interpretation
Wisdom is the ability to cultivate a unified perspective in all aspects of life.
In this quote, Hermann Hesse reflects on the nature of wisdom as an inner readiness and skill that enables an individual to harmoniously integrate their thoughts, feelings, and actions. This preparation of the soul suggests that wisdom is more than just knowledge; it is an artful practice of maintaining a sense of unity in one's experiences and interactions, encouraging mindful living in each moment.
In practice
This quote serves as a reminder to stay present and connected in our daily lives during a speech on personal growth.
I shall no longer be instructed by the Yoga Veda or the Aharva Veda, or the ascetics, or any other doctrine whatsoever. I shall learn from myself, be a pupil of myself; I shall get to know myself, the mystery of Siddhartha." He looked around as if he were seeing the world for the first time.
That is where my dearest and brightest dreams have ranged β to hear for the duration of a heartbeat the universe and the totality of life in its mysterious, innate harmony.
I, also, would like to look and smile, sit and walk like that, so free, so worthy, so restrained, so candid, so childlike and mysterious. A man only looks and walks like that when he has conquered his Self. I also will conquer my Self.
You're quite right there," he said. "I have practiced abstinence myself for years, and had my time of fasting, too, but now I find myself once more beneath the sign of Aquarius, a dark and humid constellation.
I call that man awake who, with conscious knowledge and understanding, can perceive the deep unreasoning powers in his soul, his whole innermost strength, desire and weakness, and knows how to reckon with himself.
Despair is the result of each earnest attempt to go through life with virtue, justice and understanding, and to fulfill their requirements. Children live on one side of despair, the awakened on the other side.
Many a serious thinker has been produced in prisons, where we have nothing to do but think.
There is a courageous wisdom; there is also a false, reptile prudence, the result not of caution but of fear.
We can be serene even in the midst of calamities and, by our serenity, make others more tranquil.
Not the senses I have but what I do with them is my kingdom.
I think the world would be a lot better off if more people were to define themselves in terms of their own standards and values and not what other people said or thought about them.
Nothing is often a good thing to do and always a good thing to say.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.