Say not unto thyself, Behold, truth breedeth hatred, and I…
“Say not unto thyself, Behold, truth breedeth hatred, and I will avoid it; dissimulation raiseth friends, and I will follow it. Are not the enemies made by truth, better than the friends obtained by flattery?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Truth can create enemies, while flattery creates false friends; the speaker prefers honest enemies over deceitful allies.
In simple terms: Truth breeds enemies, flattery creates false friends.
Key Takeaway
Choose honesty over deceit.
Themes
honesty
friendship
truth
flattery
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it better to have honest enemies than loyal liars?
- How does truth affect personal safety?
A Different Perspective
Flattery may provide short‑term comfort but erodes trust.