“War on the other hand is such a terrible thing, that no man, especially a Christian man, has the right to assume the responsibility of starting it.”
- September 9, 1828 – November 20, 1910
- Born in Russia
- Writer, philosopher
- Wrote masterpieces such as “War and Peace,” “Anna Karenina,” and “Ivan the Fool,” and had a major impact not only on literature but also on politics and society.
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Quote
“War on the other hand is such a terrible thing, that no man, especially a Christian man, has the right to assume the responsibility of starting it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leo Tolstoy argues that war is inherently evil, and no one, especially someone who identifies with Christian values, has the moral authority to initiate such a destructive force. Tolstoy, a devout Christian and a committed pacifist, believed that violence and war directly contradict the core teachings of Christianity, which emphasize love, forgiveness, and non-violence. By pointing out the profound immorality of war, he suggests that leaders and individuals alike must be held accountable for the consequences of war, and that initiating it is a deeply unethical act that undermines human dignity and peace.
This idea remains highly relevant in modern times, where political leaders and nations continue to wage wars under the guise of national interest or security, often with devastating consequences for innocent civilians. Tolstoy’s words call attention to the moral responsibility that each individual has in preventing conflict, especially in a world where religious or ethical principles should guide decisions. For example, despite the justification of wars in contemporary history, many have argued that true Christian teachings, which advocate for peace, should never support the violent initiation of conflict.
Tolstoy’s personal life and writings reflect his firm stance against war. He became a vocal critic of the Russian Empire’s military actions and the broader global acceptance of war as a means of resolving conflicts. His later works, including his essay The Kingdom of God Is Within You, explore how Christianity’s core message of peace and non-resistance stands in stark opposition to the violence of war. This quote, therefore, is not only a critique of military aggression but also a call for individuals, particularly those of faith, to examine their moral obligations in the face of conflict.
