Skip to content

The seeker says, "I do not know." That takes honesty. The…

“The seeker says, "I do not know." That takes honesty. The master says, "I do not know." That takes a mystic's mind that knows things through non-knowing. The disciple says, "I know." That takes ignorance, in the form of borrowed knowledge.” quote by Anthony de Mello
Download Open image
“The seeker says, "I do not know." That takes honesty. The master says, "I do not know." That takes a mystic's mind that knows things through non-knowing. The disciple says, "I know." That takes ignorance, in the form of borrowed knowledge.”

Anthony de Mello

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Acknowledging ignorance opens a path to deeper insight, while claiming knowledge can mask true understanding.

In simple terms: Admitting you don’t know leads to growth.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility to learn.

Themes

humility knowledge spirituality

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal meditation
  • spiritual practice
  • teaching
  • learning
  • dialogue

Key Concepts

non‑knowing mindfulness epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “knowing” truly mean for you?
  • How can you practice non‑knowing daily?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can block genuine insight.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Anthony de Mello

Explore all 253 Anthony de Mello quotes

More Borrowed quotes

Browse all 343 Borrowed quotes