Gotthold Ephraim Lessing Quotes

The true value of man is not determined by his possession, supposed or real, of Truth, but rather by his sincere exertion to get to the Truth. It is not possession of Truth by which he extends his powers and in which his ever-growing perfectability is to be found. Possession makes one passive, indolent and proud. If God were to hold all Truth concealed in his right hand, and in his left only the steady and diligent drive for Truth, albeit with the proviso that I would always and forever err in the process, and to offer me the choice, I would with all humility take the left hand.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

The true value of a man is not determined by his possession, supposed or real, of Truth, but rather by his sincere exertion to get to the Truth. It is not possession of the Truth, but rather the pursuit of Truth by which he extends his powers and in which his ever-growing perfectibility is to be found. Possession makes one passive, indolent, and proud.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

The true value of a man is not determined by his possession, supposed or real, of Truth, but rather by his sincere exertion to get to the Truth.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

Let each man say what he deems truth, and let truth itself be commended unto God.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

A heretic is a man who sees with his own eyes.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

The most agreeable of all companions is a simple, frank man, without any high pretensions to an oppressive greatness; one who loves life, and understands the use of it; obliging alike at all hours; above all, of a golden temper and steadfast as an anchor. For such an one we gladly exchange the greatest genius, the most brilliant wit, the profoundest thinker.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

A single grateful thought toward heaven is the most perfect prayer.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

For me the greatest beauty always lies in the greatest clarity.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

The most deadly fruit is borne by the hatred which one grafts on an extinguished friendship.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

Absolute truth belongs to Thee alone.

~ Gotthold Ephraim Lessing