A good end cannot sanctify evil means; nor must we ever do…
“A good end cannot sanctify evil means; nor must we ever do evil, that good may come of it... It is as great presumption to send our passions upon God's errands, as to palliate them with God's name... We are too ready to retailiate, rather than forgive, or gain by love and information. And yet we could hurt no man that we believe loves us. Let us try then what Love will do: for if men did once see we love them, we should soon find they would not harm us. Force may subdue, but Love gains: and he that forgives first, wins the laurel.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage argues that evil cannot be justified by good outcomes and that love and forgiveness outweigh force.
In simple terms: Evil can't be justified; love and forgiveness win.
Key Takeaway
Choose love and forgiveness over retaliation.
Themes
ethics
forgiveness
love
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
thoughtful
serious
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- personal relationships
- justice reform
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Can love truly change hostile intentions?
- When is forgiveness insufficient?
A Different Perspective
Love may be challenged by entrenched hostility; forgiveness can be difficult.