He that would be angry and sin not, must not be angry with anything but sin

He that would be angry and sin not, must not be angry with anything but sin

John Ruskin, a prominent English art critic and social thinker of the 19th century, was known for his strong opinions and passionate beliefs. One of his most famous quotes is, “He that would be angry and sin not, must not be angry with anything but sin.” This statement reflects Ruskin’s belief in the importance of righteous anger and the need to direct it towards moral injustices rather than personal grievances.

Ruskin believed that anger, when properly directed, could be a powerful force for good. He saw it as a natural response to injustice and a necessary tool for bringing about social change. However, he also recognized the dangers of allowing anger to consume one’s thoughts and actions, leading to sin and further harm.

In the context of Ruskin’s work, this quote can be seen as a call to action for individuals to channel their anger towards fighting against the evils of society, such as poverty, inequality, and exploitation. By focusing their anger on these larger issues, rather than personal slights or grievances, individuals can work towards creating a more just and equitable world.

Ruskin’s own life and work were marked by his passionate commitment to social reform and his willingness to speak out against the injustices of his time. He was a vocal critic of the industrial revolution and the negative impact it had on workers and the environment. Through his writing and activism, Ruskin sought to raise awareness of these issues and inspire others to join him in the fight for a better world.