“People talk to people who perceive nothing, who have open eyes and see nothing; they shall talk to them and receive no answer; they shall adore those who have ears and hear nothing; they shall burn lamps for those who do not see.”
- April 15, 1452 – May 2, 1519
- Italian
- A versatile man (painter, sculptor, architect, inventor, scientist, etc.)
- He created many works of art, including the paintings “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” and also left behind many pioneering ideas in science and engineering, such as “blueprints for airplanes” and “anatomical studies.”
Quote
“People talk to people who perceive nothing, who have open eyes and see nothing; they shall talk to them and receive no answer; they shall adore those who have ears and hear nothing; they shall burn lamps for those who do not see.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leonardo da Vinci critiques the futility of engaging with individuals who are blind to truth and understanding, despite having the physical tools to perceive the world—eyes, ears, and senses. Da Vinci is highlighting the tragedy of people who fail to perceive or comprehend what is before them, even when presented with the means to do so. The idea of burning lamps for those who do not see and adoring those who do not hear suggests that some may waste energy and resources on others who are either indifferent or incapable of engaging with the truth. Da Vinci seems to point to the lack of true perception, not just physical sight or hearing, but the deeper ability to understand and recognize what is important or true.
Historically, this quote reflects Da Vinci’s belief in the importance of awareness and understanding. As a scientist, artist, and thinker, Da Vinci was deeply interested in the idea of perception—not just the ability to see or hear, but the ability to comprehend and interpret the world accurately. He often emphasized that true knowledge comes not from superficial observation, but from a deep engagement with the world, and that a lack of understanding, despite the physical faculties to perceive, is a form of blindness.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the idea that knowledge and understanding are not guaranteed simply by having the capacity to perceive the world, but by the willingness and effort to engage with it. In an age where information is abundant, Da Vinci’s words remind us that without true awareness and critical thinking, people can remain ignorant despite having access to all the tools necessary for learning. It encourages us to look deeper, to engage with what we see, and to listen carefully to what we hear, so we don’t fall into the trap of wasting time or resources on superficial or meaningless pursuits.
