“I have not the slightest doubt that prayer is an unfailing means of cleansing the heart of passions. But it must be combined with the utmost humility.”
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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's autobiography ('Gandhi: An Autobiography'); text carries a typo ('he' for 'be').
About this quote
A steady practice of turning inward can settle anger, craving, and pride over time, but only when it's done to change yourself, not to look devout. Approach it as someone still learning and it works on you; approach it as proof of your goodness and it hardens the very ego it was meant to soften.
When to use it
- Someone who writes each night about his own faults, not others' offenses, slowly loses his short temper.
- A person who sits quietly each morning to grow calmer, rather than to feel superior for having a practice.
- A believer who prays privately for patience instead of announcing her piety to the whole household.