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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author claims to forgive many for the sake of a few, and the living for the dead.
In plain terms
Forgive the many for the benefit of the few, and the living for the dead.
What can you take from it?
Sacrifice personal grievances for broader communal good.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • memorial services

Putting it to work

  • practice empathy
  • prioritize collective well‑being

Questions to consider

  • Is it always right to forgive the many?
  • How do we balance living and dead interests?

Another view

The statement is vague and may conflict with personal justice.

More from Lucius Cornelius Sulla

  1. How is this? Ought not the petitioner to speak first, and the conqueror to listen in silence?

    Permalink to quote #1
  2. No friend ever served me, and no enemy ever wronged me, whom I have not repaid in full.

    Permalink to quote #3
  3. No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy.

    Permalink to quote #4

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