Leo Tolstoy

"The goal of our life should not be to find joy in marriage, but to bring more love and truth into the world. We marry to assist each other in this task. The most selfish and hateful life of all is that of two beings who unite in order to enjoy life. The highest calling is that of the man who has dedicated his life to serving God and doing good, and who unites with a woman in order to further that purpose."

34 likes

Source: Leo Tolstoy (2016). “The Journal of Leo Tolstoi 1895~1899 (Abridged)”, p.55, BIG BYTE BOOKS

About the author

Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy

Novelist, Philosopher

Leo Tolstoy was a Russian novelist and philosopher, best known for his masterpieces 'War and Peace' and 'Anna Karenina', which explore complex human emotions and moral dilemmas.

All quotes by Leo Tolstoy →

Same author

More quotes by Leo Tolstoy

See all →
Leo Tolstoy Novelist, Philosopher

"Seize the moments of happiness, love and be loved! That is the only reality in the world, all else is folly."

Read quote
Leo Tolstoy Novelist, Philosopher

"Love is life. All, everything that I understand, I understand only because I love. Everything is, everything exists, only because I love. Everything is united by it alone. Love is God, and to die means that I, a particle of love, shall return to the general and eternal source."

Read quote
Leo Tolstoy Novelist, Philosopher

"Freethinkers are those who are willing to use their minds without prejudice and without fearing to understand things that clash with their own customs, privileges, or beliefs. This state of mind is not common, but it is essential for right thinking."

Read quote