Skip to content

Coward Quote by Swami Vivekananda

“The coward, afraid of the lash, with one hand wipes his eyes and gives with the other. Of what avail are such gifts?” quote by Swami Vivekananda
Download Open image
“The coward, afraid of the lash, with one hand wipes his eyes and gives with the other. Of what avail are such gifts?”

Swami Vivekananda

About This Quote

Source Lecture: Spiritual Teachings, 1896

Criticizes superficial charity that avoids confronting deeper suffering, implying true aid must address root causes.

In simple terms: Giving without confronting pain is ineffective.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper solutions beyond gestures.

Themes

ethics spirituality charity social justice

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

ethical motivational

When to use this quote

  • community service
  • policy reform
  • personal introspection
  • education programs

Key Concepts

altruism self‑reflection systemic change

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions address underlying injustice?
  • How can compassion be paired with action?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate practical constraints.

2.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Swami Vivekananda

Explore all 1,889 Swami Vivekananda quotes

More Coward quotes

Browse all 1,331 Coward quotes