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Approbation Quote by Mahatma Gandhi

“Man and his deed are two distinct things. Whereas a good deed should call forth approbation and a wicked deed dis-approbation, the doer of the deed, whether good or wicked always deserves respect or pity as the case may be. Hate the sin and not the sinner is a precept which though easy enough to…” quote by Mahatma Gandhi
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“Man and his deed are two distinct things. Whereas a good deed should call forth approbation and a wicked deed dis-approbation, the doer of the deed, whether good or wicked always deserves respect or pity as the case may be. Hate the sin and not the sinner is a precept which though easy enough to understand is rarely practised, and that is why the poison of hatred spreads in the world.”

Mahatma Gandhi

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address on Non‑Violence, 1930

Respect the person, not just their actions; hate the act, not the actor.

In simple terms: Judge deeds, not people.

Key Takeaway

Separate sin from sinner.

Themes

compassion justice forgiveness

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • justice reform
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy ethical behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we practice compassion toward wrongdoers?
  • What limits exist in separating sin from sinner?
A Different Perspective

People often conflate actions with identity.

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