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Vain are the beliefs and teachings that make man miserable, and false is the goodness that leads him into sorrow and despair, for it is man's purpose to be happy on this earth and lead the way to felicity and preach its gospel wherever he goes. He who does not see the kingdom of heaven in this life will never see it in the coming life. We came not into this life by exile, but we came as innocent creatures of God, to learn how to worship the holy and eternal spirit and seek the hidden secrets within ourselves from the beauty of life. This is the truth which I have learned from the teachings of the Nazarene.

Khalil Gibran#1

FaithLifeHappinessPurposeWell being

About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote critiques beliefs that cause suffering, arguing that happiness is a divine purpose. It claims heaven is found in this life through self-discovery and worship, not just after death.
In plain terms
Beliefs that cause suffering are false; happiness is our purpose and heaven is found now.
What can you take from it?
Happiness is a divine purpose; do not accept beliefs that make you miserable.

Where it applies

  • existential crisis
  • religious questioning
  • self-help

Putting it to work

  • seeking joy
  • rejecting harmful dogma
  • self-reflection

Questions to consider

  • Is happiness your true purpose?
  • What beliefs make you miserable?

Another view

It dismisses the value of suffering or struggle in spiritual growth.

More from Khalil Gibran

  1. Let us disperse from our aloofness and serve the weak who made us strong, and cleanse the country in which we live. Let us teach this miserable nation to smile…

    Permalink to quote #2
  2. I believe that you can say to Abraham Lincoln, the blessed, 'Jesus of Nazareth touched your lips when you spoke, and guided your hand when you wrote; and I sha…

    Permalink to quote #3
  3. The creator gives no heed to the critic unless he becomes a barren inventor.

    Permalink to quote #4

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