“The moment there is suspicion about a person’s motives, everything he does becomes tainted.”
- October 2, 1869 – January 30, 1948
- British Indian Empire
- Lawyer, religious leader, social activist, political leader
- As a leader of the Indian independence movement, he advocated non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) and contributed to India’s independence from Britain.
Quote
“The moment there is suspicion about a person’s motives, everything he does becomes tainted.”
Explanation
This quote speaks to the power of perception in human relationships and actions. Mahatma Gandhi suggests that once doubt or suspicion about a person’s intentions enters the equation, it colors all of their actions, no matter how innocent or well-intentioned they may be. The idea is that trust is fundamental in relationships—whether personal or societal—and once trust is broken or questioned, even the most straightforward actions can be misinterpreted or seen with suspicion.
In a broader sense, Gandhi is pointing out how integrity and transparency in one’s actions are key to maintaining credibility and respect. If a person’s motives are constantly questioned, their credibility becomes undermined, and it is difficult for their true intentions to be perceived clearly. Sincerity and honesty are thus crucial for building trust and allowing others to see one’s actions in a positive light.
This quote can also be seen as a commentary on the fragility of reputation and the ease with which doubt can overshadow good deeds. Once suspicion takes root, it has the power to distort reality, leading to a breakdown in understanding and trust. Therefore, Gandhi encourages us to maintain a high standard of integrity and to approach others with good faith, avoiding unnecessary suspicion that can damage relationships and reputations.
