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The first question which the priest and the Levite asked…

“The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?'” quote by Martin Luther King, Jr
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“The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?'”

Martin Luther King, Jr

About This Quote

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

The moral focus shifts from self‑preservation to responsibility for others' welfare.

In simple terms: Help others, not worry about yourself.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize others' needs.

Themes

ethics compassion responsibility

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

moral ethical

When to use this quote

  • emergency aid
  • community service
  • everyday kindness
  • public policy
  • education

Key Concepts

altruism social duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How would you act if you feared personal loss?
  • What does it mean to be a good neighbor?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest can dominate moral decisions.

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