To desire and expect nothing for oneself and to have profound sympathy for others is genuine holiness

To desire and expect nothing for oneself and to have profound sympathy for others is genuine holiness

Ivan Turgenev, a renowned Russian novelist and playwright, is often celebrated for his profound understanding of human nature and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience in his works. In his writing, Turgenev often explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world filled with suffering and injustice. One of the central ideas that Turgenev grapples with in his works is the concept of genuine holiness, which he believes is rooted in selflessness and compassion for others.

The quote, “To desire and expect nothing for oneself and to have profound sympathy for others is genuine holiness,” encapsulates Turgenev’s belief that true holiness is not found in religious rituals or outward displays of piety, but rather in the way we treat others and the depth of our empathy for their struggles. Turgenev’s characters often embody this idea of genuine holiness through their actions and relationships with others.