This quote is a profound statement on the nature of hatred and the power of love. It suggests that hatred, a negative and destructive emotion, cannot be overcome by more hatred. Instead, it can only be quelled by love, a positive and constructive emotion. This is the “eternal rule” – a universal principle that applies regardless of time and place.

Hatred breeds more hatred, creating a vicious cycle that only fuels more conflict and suffering. It’s like trying to extinguish a fire by adding more fuel to it. On the other hand, love has the power to break this cycle. By responding to hatred with love, we can diffuse the negativity and create an environment conducive to healing and reconciliation.

This principle is a cornerstone of many philosophies and spiritual traditions, and it’s still highly relevant in today’s world. In the face of escalating conflicts, polarizing politics, and rampant hate speech, the practice of responding with love rather than hatred becomes even more crucial. It’s not about naively ignoring the harm or injustice caused by hatred, but about choosing a response that promotes understanding, compassion, and unity rather than perpetuating the cycle of hatred.

In terms of personal development, this quote encourages us to cultivate a loving and compassionate attitude towards others, even those who may harbor ill feelings towards us. This is not an easy task, as it requires a great deal of patience, understanding, and emotional maturity. However, by doing so, we not only improve our own mental and emotional well-being, but also contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious world.

In essence, this quote is a call to rise above our instinctive reactions, to choose love over hatred, and to be the change we wish to see in the world. Whether in our personal relationships, our community interactions, or our responses to global issues, this principle can guide us towards more constructive and harmonious ways of dealing with conflict and negativity.