General Research Archives • Aharon's Omphalos

On the origin of the popular quotation, “Tradition is not to preserve the ashes, but to pass on the flame.”

The quote, “Tradition ist die Weitergabe des Feuers und nicht die Anbetung der Asche” — is often attributed to Gustav Mahler (1860–1911). While that attribution should rightfully be given to the French socialist leader Jean Jaurès (1859–1914), the actual origin goes back quite a bit further. . . . → Continue reading: On the origin of the popular quotation, “Tradition is not to preserve the ashes, but to pass on the flame.”

Tracking down the author of the popular quote: “Forgiveness means giving up all hope for a better past”

(credit: Core Jolts, from “Banana Writing for Meditation?“)

Wisdom. Shimon ben Zoma taught that the wise learn from everyone. My friend, Pesach, wrote a book of his accumulated life wisdom, Sustainable Bliss, and devoted three pages to pithy quotes he had picked up in the course of his readings and travels. While editing . . . → Continue reading: Tracking down the author of the popular quote: “Forgiveness means giving up all hope for a better past”