"Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted; the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it possible for evil to triumph."
About Haile Selassie
Haile Selassie — Life and Legacy
Haile Selassie, the last Emperor of Ethiopia, is recognized for his significant role in advocating for African unity and independence during the 20th century. His leadership was marked by a commitment to social justice and human rights, which he articulated in numerous speeches and writings. One of his notable quotes, 'It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor,' reflects his belief in the transformative power of education as a means to uplift individuals and society as a whole. Selassie's worldview was deeply rooted in the principles of freedom and equality. He famously stated, 'A nation’s greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members,' emphasizing that true leadership is defined by compassion and the protection of the vulnerable. This perspective challenged the prevailing norms of his time, as he sought to redefine leadership not merely as a position of power but as a responsibility to serve and uplift all citizens. Today, Selassie's quotes resonate with those advocating for social justice and equality, as they continue to inspire movements for freedom and human rights across the globe. His legacy as a leader who fought against oppression and championed the cause of African unity remains relevant, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for justice and dignity.
Quote collection
Haile Selassie quotes (page 1 of 5)
83 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"That until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned: That until there are no longer first-class and second class citizens of any nation; That until the color of a man's skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes; That until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all without regard to race; That until that day, the dream of lasting peace and world citizenship and the rule of international morality will remain but a fleeting illusion, to be pursued but never attained."
"Our youth must be steadfast and take advantage of the benefits of modern civilization. Do not fall prey to idleness for it shall be a curse to you and to succeeding generations. You must set yourselves us as examples of determination and hard work. Plan your time and use both your physical and mental powers purposefully and productively."
"If you are open-minded and ready to learn, there are many things which you can learn not only from books and instructors but from the very life experience itself."
"No one should question the faith of others, for no human being can judge the ways of God."
"We must become bigger than we have been: more courageous, greater in spirit, larger in outlook. We must become members of a new race, overcoming petty prejudice, owing our ultimate allegiance not to nations but to our fellow men within the human community."
"A man who says “I have learned enough and will learn no further” should be considered as knowing nothing at all."
"Many discouraging hours will arise before the rainbow of accomplished goals will appear on the horizon."
"Do not worship me, I am not God. I'm only a man. I worship Jesus Christ."
"Let us set our goals too high; let us demand more of ourselves than we believe we possess"
"You must always remember that to lead, one must first learn to follow."
"Spiritual power is the eternal guide, in this life and the life after, for man ranks supreme among all creatures. Led forward by spiritual power, man can reach the summit destined for him by the Great Creator."
"Knowledge is power. If it is not applied properly to create, let there be no doubts, it will destroy."
"There is always something moving, brewing. There are ambitious people everywhere. Wicked people. The only thing to do is to deal with them with courage and decision. One must beware of uncertainty, weakness or conflicting emotions - they lead to defeat"
"Any who may wish to profit himself alone from the knowledge given him, rather than serve others through the knowledge he has gained from learning, is betraying knowledge and rendering it worthless"
"We should accept diversity in culture and tradition and coexist peacefully."
"Education develops the intellect; and the intellect distinguishes man from other creatures. It is education that enables man to harness nature and utilize her resources for the well-being and improvement of his life"
"History teaches us that unity is strength, and cautions us to submerge and overcome our differences in the quest for common goals, to strive, with all our combined strength, for the path to true African brotherhood and unity."
"Knowledge paves the way to Love, and Love in its turn fosters understanding, and leads one along the path of great common achievements."
"It is important that spiritual advancement must keep pace with material advancement. When this comes to be realized man's journey toward higher and more lasting values will show more marked progress while the evil in him recedes into the background. Knowing that material and spiritual progress are essential to man, we must ceaselessly work for the equal attainment of both. Only then shall we be able to acquire that absolute inner calm so necessary to our well-being."