“I am a humble but very earnest seeker after truth.”
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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: Widely attributed to Gandhi as a self-description; consistent with his frequent 'seeker after Truth' phrasing, but no dated primary (Young India/Harijan/CWMG) located.
About this quote
Humility and earnestness pull in useful opposite directions: humility keeps you from thinking you've arrived, so you stay open, while earnestness keeps you from drifting, so the search stays serious. Held together, they make someone who keeps learning without ever getting smug about it.
When to use it
- A scientist who holds conclusions loosely yet tests them as rigorously as anyone.
- Admitting in a debate that you might be wrong and genuinely trying to understand the other side.
- A student who drops the need to look clever and so finally learns the hard material.