Backgrounds Quote by Jiddu Krishnamurti
“If we try to listen we find it extraordinarily difficult, because we are always projecting our opinions and ideas, our prejudices, our background, our inclinations, our impulses; when they dominate, we hardly listen at all to what is being said...One listens and therefore learns, only in a state of silence, in which this whole background is in abeyance, is quite; then, it seems to me, it is possible to communicate”
About This Quote
Source Book: Freedom from the Known, 1969
Listening requires quieting personal biases and mental chatter to truly understand others
In simple terms: Quiet mind, listen fully
Key Takeaway
Silence mental, listen fully
Themes
philosophy
communication
mindfulness
self-awareness
Mood
contemplative
calm
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- therapy sessions
- conflict resolution
- education
Key Concepts
Active listening
inner silence
bias reduction
Questions to Reflect On
- What habits keep your mind noisy?
- How can you create space for silence in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Silence can be uncomfortable and may limit spontaneous expression
