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When you give something to a man and expect nothing — do…

“When you give something to a man and expect nothing — do not even expect the man to be grateful — his ingratitude will not tell upon you, because you never expected anything, never thought you had any right to anything in the way of a return. You gave him what he deserved; his own Karma got it for…” quote by Swami Vivekananda
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““When you give something to a man and expect nothing — do not even expect the man to be grateful — his ingratitude will not tell upon you, because you never expected anything, never thought you had any right to anything in the way of a return. You gave him what he deserved; his own Karma got it for him; your Karma made you the carrier thereof.””

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.

Giving without expectation frees you from disappointment and aligns with karmic justice; the giver’s lack of entitlement makes the act pure.

In simple terms: Giving selflessly avoids resentment.

Key Takeaway

Give freely, expect nothing.

Themes

selflessness karma gratitude expectations

Mood

reflective serene

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • charitable acts
  • personal relationships
  • volunteering
  • mentor‑mentee dynamics

Key Concepts

Karmic reciprocity spiritual humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates your generosity?
  • How does expectation affect your peace?
A Different Perspective

If you secretly hope for gratitude, the act may become transactional.

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