“Before the throne of the Almighty, man will be judged not by his acts but by his intentions. For God alone reads our hearts.”
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Probable attribution
This saying is widely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, but the attribution is not supported by a reliable primary source.
Likely origin: Attributed to Gandhi in 'The Essential Writings' (OUP) and other compilations; no dated primary publication located.
About this quote
Motive carries more moral weight than the visible outcome. A clumsy act done in good faith counts for more than a polished one done for show, because the worth of what you do lives in why you did it — something only you fully know about yourself.
When to use it
- Valuing a friend's awkward, honest apology over a smooth one offered only to end the argument.
- Helping a neighbor quietly with no expectation of thanks or public credit.
- Judging a volunteer who tried hard and fell short more kindly than one who coasted and got lucky.