Some thought-provoking quotes and sayings from Desmond Mpilo Tutu, South African Anglican Archbishop Emeritus. Populary referred to as “South Africa’s moral conscience.“
When the missionaries came to Africa they had the Bible and we had the land. They said, ‘Let us pray.’ We closed our eyes. When we opened them we had the Bible and they had the land. ~Desmond Tutu
If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality. ~Desmond Tutu
I don’t preach a social gospel; I preach the Gospel, period. The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is concerned for the whole person. When people were hungry, Jesus didn’t say, “Now is that political or social?” He said, “I feed you.” Because the good news to a hungry person is bread. ~Desmond Tutu
You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them. ~Desmond Tutu
I am not interested in picking up crumbs of compassion thrown from the table of someone who considers himself my master. I want the full menu of rights. ~Desmond Tutu
I am a leader by default, only because nature does not allow a vacuum. ~Desmond Tutu
A person is a person because he recognizes others as persons. ~Desmond Tutu
We may be surprised at the people we find in heaven. God has a soft spot for sinners. His standards are quite low. ~Desmond Tutu
Be nice to whites, they need you to rediscover their humanity. ~Desmond Tutu
When a pile of cups is tottering on the edge of the table and you warn that they will crash to the ground, in South Africa you are blamed when that happens. ~Desmond Tutu
Desmond Tutu, the renowned South African Anglican bishop and social rights activist, is not only celebrated for his impactful work but also for his unique ability to deliver profound messages with a touch of humor and wisdom. In this article, we explore some of Desmond Tutu’s most memorable quotes, delving into the wisdom they hold and the lessons they offer.
The Missionaries and the Bible
“When the missionaries came to Africa they had the Bible and we had the land. They said, ‘Let us pray.’ We closed our eyes. When we opened them we had the Bible and they had the land.”
Desmond Tutu’s quote about the arrival of missionaries in Africa is a poignant commentary on the colonial history of the continent. Through humor and simplicity, Tutu highlights the injustices faced by indigenous people during colonization. It serves as a reminder that history often involves complex power dynamics and the consequences of such imbalances.
Taking a Stand Against Injustice
“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.”
Tutu’s analogy of the elephant and the mouse vividly illustrates the moral imperative of taking a stand against injustice. Remaining neutral in the face of oppression essentially condones the wrongdoing. This quote encourages us to be active allies in the fight against injustice, regardless of our own circumstances.
The Gospel of Compassion
“I don’t preach a social gospel; I preach the Gospel, period. The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is concerned for the whole person. When people were hungry, Jesus didn’t say, ‘Now is that political or social?’ He said, ‘I feed you.’ Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.”
Desmond Tutu’s dedication to the teachings of Jesus is evident in this quote. He emphasizes the importance of addressing the basic needs of individuals before delving into debates about politics or social issues. It reminds us that compassion and action are at the core of faith.
The Gift of Family
“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.”
Tutu’s words on family capture the essence of the unbreakable bonds we share with our loved ones. He reminds us that family is a gift, one that should be cherished and valued. This quote is a beautiful reflection on the importance of unconditional love and support within the family unit.
Striving for Equality
“I am not interested in picking up crumbs of compassion thrown from the table of someone who considers himself my master. I want the full menu of rights.”
Tutu’s quote reflects his relentless pursuit of equality and justice. He refuses to settle for less than what is rightfully deserved. This statement serves as a call to action for all who strive for justice and equality to demand nothing less than their full rights.
Leadership and Nature’s Course
“I am a leader by default, only because nature does not allow a vacuum.”
Desmond Tutu’s humility shines through in this quote about leadership. He acknowledges that leadership often emerges out of necessity, and it is not always a choice. This perspective reminds us that leadership is not about personal ambition but about responding to the needs of the community.
The Essence of Personhood
“A person is a person because he recognizes others as persons.”
Tutu’s quote encapsulates the essence of empathy and the recognition of the humanity in others. It beautifully conveys the idea that our worth as individuals is deeply connected to how we treat and acknowledge the worth of those around us.
God’s Mercy and Forgiveness
“We may be surprised at the people we find in heaven. God has a soft spot for sinners. His standards are quite low.”
This humorous yet profound quote challenges our preconceived notions of righteousness and salvation. Tutu suggests that God’s mercy extends to all, regardless of their past actions. It encourages us to practice forgiveness and compassion in our own lives.
Rediscovering Humanity
“Be nice to whites, they need you to rediscover their humanity.”
Tutu’s humor shines through in this statement, which carries a deeper message. It highlights the importance of mutual respect and understanding among different racial and ethnic groups. It reminds us that kindness and empathy can bridge divides and help us rediscover our shared humanity.
Taking Responsibility
“When a pile of cups is tottering on the edge of the table and you warn that they will crash to the ground, in South Africa you are blamed when that happens.”
Desmond Tutu’s witty observation sheds light on the tendency to shift blame onto those who speak out or take action. It serves as a reminder that those who raise their voices against injustice often face resistance and scapegoating. Nevertheless, it underscores the importance of taking responsibility for addressing imminent problems.
Desmond Tutu’s quotes are a testament to his wisdom, wit, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. They remind us of the importance of speaking out against injustice, embracing compassion, and recognizing the humanity in all individuals. Tutu’s words continue to inspire and challenge us to be better, more compassionate, and more engaged members of the global community.