As freely as the firmament embraces the world, or the sun pours forth impartially his beams, so mercy must encircle both friend and foe.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Mercy should be given freely to everyone, including enemies.
- In plain terms
- Show kindness to friends and foes equally.
- What can you take from it?
- True mercy is impartial and universal.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who deserves your mercy today?
- Can you be impartial in conflict?
Another view
Some situations require firmness over mercy.
More from Friedrich von Schiller
Art is the right hand of Nature. The latter has only given us being, the former has made us men.
Permalink to quote #97 Be noble minded! Our own heart, and not other men's opinions of us, forms our true honor.
Permalink to quote #99 Appearance rules the world.
Permalink to quote #96
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