He who is not just is severe, he who is not wise is sad.

He who is not just is severe, he who is not wise is sad.

📖 Voltaire

🌍 French  |  👨‍💼 Writer

🎂 November 21, 1694  –  ⚰️ May 30, 1778
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The quote underscores the deep intertwining of justice and wisdom in leading a balanced and meaningful life. Justice is often associated with fairness, moral integrity, and the ability to distinguish right from wrong. When individuals lack justice, their actions may become severe or harsh, not necessarily out of malice but due to a deficiency in moral grounding. On the other hand, wisdom entails not only knowledge but also the capacity for sound judgment, patience, and compassion. A lack of wisdom can lead to sadness because misjudgments, misguided actions, and unfulfilled aspirations can cause inner turmoil and dissatisfaction. When we strive for justice, we are aligning ourselves with principles that foster harmony and social stability. This pursuit helps to create a world where individuals feel secure and respected, which in turn contributes to personal contentment.

Furthermore, wisdom provides a nuanced understanding of complex human situations. It tempers strictness with understanding and sensitivity, reducing unnecessary suffering and fostering empathy. Without wisdom, even just actions could be performed in a rigid or overly severe manner, possibly leading to alienation or remorse. Conversely, a wise person recognizes the importance of balancing justice with compassion, leading to a more harmonious existence.

Ultimately, this quote emphasizes that moral virtue isn't just about strict rules or intelligence; it involves a nuanced mastery of how to live rightly and kindly. Both justice and wisdom serve as cornerstones for personal fulfillment and societal well-being. Cultivating these virtues can help individuals transcend mere rules or intellect and move toward a life characterized by integrity, peace, and genuine happiness.

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July 15, 2025

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