"The passion of hatred is so long lived and so obstinate a malady that the surest sign of death in a sick person is their desire for reconciliation"

Jean de la Bruyère, a French philosopher and moralist, makes an extensive observation about the nature of hatred in this quote. The declaration suggests that hatred is a deeply ingrained and persistent feeling, typically consuming the individual who harbors it. Describing hatred as a "enthusiasm" signifies its intensity and capacity to dominate an individual's thoughts and actions.

La Bruyère's use of the term "condition" to describe hatred indicates that it is akin to an illness, affecting the well-being of the individual who possesses it. Hatred, like a persistent illness, can persist in time, impacting one's psychological and emotional health. It recommends that keeping bitterness and enmity can be devastating, clouding judgment, and impeding personal development and relationships. This comparison to an ailment also hints at the trouble of treating or overcoming hatred; it is an affliction that might resist efforts of resolution.

The second part of the quote, "the best indication of death in a sick individual is their desire for reconciliation", uses a striking perspective on reconciliation and modification. In this context, la Bruyère suggests that a desire for reconciliation often comes only when a person is nearing completion of life or when they acknowledge the severity of their 'disease.' The metaphorical 'death' here might signify the fatigue of hatred's power, as individuals might look for to fix conflicts just when confronted with their own mortality or a substantial change in point of view. Reconciliation emerges as a difficult job, possible only when the host acknowledges the detrimental results of sustained displeasure.

Eventually, la Bruyère's reflection highlights the harmful nature of hatred and suggests that reconciliation needs challenging the perseverance of this feeling. This quote welcomes readers to think about the advantages of solving conflicts and letting go of hatred before it takes in one's life, promoting for healing and restoration as a path towards peace and understanding.