Skip to content

What is meant by charity? Charity is not fundamental. It…

“What is meant by charity? Charity is not fundamental. It is really helping on the misery of the world, not eradicating it. One looks for name and fame and covers his efforts to obtain them with the enamel of charity and good works. He is working for himself under the pretext of working for others…” quote by Swami Vivekananda
Download Open image
“What is meant by charity? Charity is not fundamental. It is really helping on the misery of the world, not eradicating it. One looks for name and fame and covers his efforts to obtain them with the enamel of charity and good works. He is working for himself under the pretext of working for others. Every so-called charity is an encouragement of the very evil it claims to operate against.”

Swami Vivekananda

About This Quote

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

Charity often serves ego, not true alleviation of suffering; true help avoids self‑interest.

In simple terms: Charity can be selfish.

Key Takeaway

Practice selfless service.

Themes

philosophy ethics spirituality

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

spiritual ethical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • philanthropy
  • community projects
  • policy making

Key Concepts

altruism motivation social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you distinguish genuine aid from self‑promotion?
  • What motivates you to help others?
A Different Perspective

Pure altruism is hard to achieve.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Swami Vivekananda

Explore all 1,889 Swami Vivekananda quotes

More Charity quotes

Browse all 2,477 Charity quotes