Take care lest perchance you fall into the mistake of…
“Take care lest perchance you fall into the mistake of thinking to gain more by being merciful than by being just; for to pardon him too easily that has transgressed is to wrong him that transgresses not.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Justice and mercy must be balanced; excessive mercy can undermine justice.
In simple terms: Balance justice and mercy.
Key Takeaway
Apply fair judgment.
Themes
ethics
law
justice
mercy
balance
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- leadership decisions
- conflict mediation
- policy making
- personal forgiveness
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
fairness
judicial discretion
Questions to Reflect On
- When should mercy outweigh justice?
- How to avoid over‑forgiving?
A Different Perspective
Mercy may be seen as weakness.