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Ancient history Quote by J. Krishnamurti

“You know, if we understand one question rightly, all questions are answered. But we don't know how to ask the right question. To ask the right question demands a great deal of intelligence and sensitivity. Here is a question, a fundamental question: is life a torture? It is, as it is; and man has…” quote by J. Krishnamurti
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““You know, if we understand one question rightly, all questions are answered. But we don't know how to ask the right question. To ask the right question demands a great deal of intelligence and sensitivity. Here is a question, a fundamental question: is life a torture? It is, as it is; and man has lived in this torture centuries upon centuries, from ancient history to the present day, in agony, in despair, in sorrow; and he doesn't find a way out of it. Therefore he invents gods, churches, all the rituals, and all that nonsense, or he escapes in different ways. What we are trying to do, during all these discussions and talks here, is to see if we cannot radically bring about a transformation of the mind, not accept things as they are, nor revolt against them. Revolt doesn't answer a thing. You must understand it, go into it, examine it, give your heart and your mind, with everything that you have, to find out a way of living differently. That depends on you, and not on someone else, because in this there is no teacher, no pupil; there is no leader; there is no guru; there is no Master, no Saviour. You yourself are the teacher and the pupil; you are the Master; you are the guru; you are the leader; you are everything. And to understand is to transform what is. I think that will be enough, won't it?””

J. Krishnamurti

About This Quote

Source Lecture: The Question of Life, J. Krishnamurti, 1970s

Understanding the fundamental nature of existence requires deep insight; merely asking the right question is essential, and personal transformation arises from self‑inquiry, not external authority.

In simple terms: To change life, first understand it deeply.

Key Takeaway

Seek self‑knowledge, not external doctrines.

Themes

philosophy existentialism self‑realization

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal meditation
  • therapy
  • spiritual study
  • philosophical dialogue

Key Concepts

consciousness questioning inner transformation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What question have you avoided?
  • How does personal responsibility change your outlook?
A Different Perspective

Self‑inquiry can be limited by cultural conditioning and fear of uncertainty.

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