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The Sufis advise us to speak only after our words have…

“The Sufis advise us to speak only after our words have managed to pass through three gates. At the first gate, we ask ourselves, 'Are these words true?' If so, we let them pass on; if not, back they go. At the second gate, we ask, 'Are the necessary?' At the last gate, we ask, 'Are they kind?'” quote by Eknath Easwaran
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“The Sufis advise us to speak only after our words have managed to pass through three gates. At the first gate, we ask ourselves, 'Are these words true?' If so, we let them pass on; if not, back they go. At the second gate, we ask, 'Are the necessary?' At the last gate, we ask, 'Are they kind?'”

Eknath Easwaran

About This Quote

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

Speak only after words pass three gates: truth, necessity, kindness.

In simple terms: Check if words are true, needed, and kind before speaking.

Key Takeaway

Practice mindful, purposeful speech.

Themes

communication mindfulness ethics speech wisdom

Mood

reflective calm inspirational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily conversations
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • teaching

Key Concepts

virtue ethics self‑regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which gate do you struggle with most?
  • How can you train yourself to pause?
A Different Perspective

Applying all three gates can be challenging in fast‑paced dialogue.

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