"Peace is not an absence of war, it is a virtue, a state of mind, a disposition for benevolence, confidence, justice"
- Baruch Spinoza
About this Quote
In this quote, Baruch Spinoza is emphasizing that peace is not simply the lack of war or conflict, however rather a favorable quality that includes various elements of one's being. He describes peace as a virtue, meaning it is a moral quality that a person possesses. It is likewise a state of mind, suggesting that it is a mental state that a person actively cultivates. In addition, peace is a personality for altruism, confidence, and justice, showing that it involves being kind, fearless, and reasonable towards others. Overall, Spinoza's quote highlights the multifaceted nature of peace and the importance of actively embodying it in one's thoughts, actions, and attitudes.
"When the principles that run against your deepest convictions begin to win the day, then the battle is your calling, and peace has become sin. You must at the price of dearest peace lay your convictions bare before friend and enemy with all the fire of your faith"