Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold

Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold

Leo Tolstoy, one of the greatest novelists of all time, was a man who dedicated his life to seeking truth and understanding the human condition. His works, such as War and Peace and Anna Karenina, are filled with deep philosophical insights and moral dilemmas that reflect his own personal journey towards enlightenment. Tolstoy believed that truth, like gold, is not something that can be acquired through accumulation or growth, but rather through a process of purification and elimination of all that is false or impure.

In Tolstoy's view, truth is a precious and valuable commodity that must be sought after diligently and with great care. Just as gold must be mined from the earth and refined through a process of purification to remove impurities, so too must truth be obtained by washing away all that is not true or genuine. This process of purification requires a willingness to confront one's own biases, prejudices, and preconceived notions in order to arrive at a deeper understanding of reality.

Tolstoy's own life was a testament to his commitment to seeking truth and living in accordance with his beliefs. He famously renounced his wealth and privilege in order to live a simple and humble life, dedicated to serving others and pursuing a deeper spiritual truth. His writings reflect his belief in the importance of living a life of integrity and authenticity, free from the trappings of materialism and ego.

In his quest for truth, Tolstoy was not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom or question the established norms of society. He was a fierce critic of the Russian Orthodox Church and the government, which he saw as corrupt and hypocritical institutions that stifled individual freedom and moral autonomy. Tolstoy believed that true freedom could only be achieved through a personal commitment to living in accordance with one's own conscience and moral principles.