This quote delves into the nature of two powerful negative emotions: hatred and envy. Hatred is described as an ‘active displeasure’, implying that it is a strong, outward emotion that drives actions and behaviors. It’s a reactive state where one is constantly in opposition, in conflict, and in a state of rejection towards someone or something.

On the other hand, envy is termed as ‘passive’. It is a quieter emotion, often hidden and internal. It is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another’s advantages, success, possessions etc. Unlike hatred, envy doesn’t immediately drive one to act, but rather it festers within, creating a state of dissatisfaction and resentment.

The quote suggests that it is not surprising if envy soon turns into hatred. This is because envy, left unchecked, can escalate and manifest as hatred. The dissatisfaction and resentment that come with envy can lead to active displeasure or hatred if one starts to act on these feelings.

In the context of today’s world, this idea can be seen playing out in various ways. For example, in the realm of social media, envy can easily breed from the constant exposure to other people’s success, wealth, beauty, or perceived happiness. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and resentment, which, if not managed, could turn into active dislike or even hatred.

On a personal development level, understanding this dynamic is crucial. It’s important to check feelings of envy before they escalate into something more destructive. This involves practicing gratitude, focusing on one’s own journey rather than comparing it to others, and cultivating a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. Furthermore, it’s essential to understand that acting on hatred not only harms the person it’s directed at, but also the one who hates, as it consumes their time, energy, and well-being. Therefore, managing these emotions is key to personal growth and mental health.