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It is like the thirsty traveller who at first sincerely…

“It is like the thirsty traveller who at first sincerely sought the water of knowledge, but who later, having found it plain perhaps, proceeded to temper his cup with the salt of doubt so that his thirst now becomes insatiable though he drinks incessantly, and that in thus drinking the water that…” quote by Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas
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“It is like the thirsty traveller who at first sincerely sought the water of knowledge, but who later, having found it plain perhaps, proceeded to temper his cup with the salt of doubt so that his thirst now becomes insatiable though he drinks incessantly, and that in thus drinking the water that cannot slake his thirst, he has forgotten the original and true purpose for which the water was sought.”

Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas

About This Quote

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

Seeking knowledge without purpose leads to endless doubt, forgetting the original aim of learning.

In simple terms: Purposeful learning prevents endless doubt.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge with clear purpose.

Themes

education purpose doubt

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • personal development
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy of learning spiritual growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is your ultimate learning goal?
  • How do you stay focused on purpose?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on doubt can hinder progress.

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