A man does not sin by commission only, but often by omission.

What did Marcus Aurelius mean by:

A man does not sin by commission only, but often by omission.

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This quote implies that wrongdoing is not only about actively committing harmful actions, but also about failing to take positive actions when one has the opportunity to do so. It suggests a moral responsibility to not only avoid harmful deeds, but also to actively do good whenever possible.

The “sin of commission” refers to the act of doing something wrong, such as lying, stealing, or cheating. On the other hand, the “sin of omission” refers to the act of not doing something that should be done, such as not helping someone in need when one has the means and opportunity to do so, or not speaking up against injustice when one has the platform to do so.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied in various ways. For instance, in the context of social issues, it suggests that it’s not enough to simply refrain from participating in oppressive behaviors. One should also take proactive steps to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression. This could involve educating oneself about social issues, using one’s privilege to amplify marginalized voices, or advocating for policies that promote equality and justice.

In personal development, this quote suggests that self-improvement involves not only eliminating negative habits but also cultivating positive ones. For example, it’s not enough to just stop procrastinating; one should also actively work on developing good time management skills. Similarly, it’s not enough to just avoid negative thinking; one should also make a conscious effort to cultivate a positive mindset.

In essence, the quote is a call to action. It reminds us that inaction in the face of wrongdoing can be just as harmful as the wrongdoing itself. It challenges us to not only be “not bad”, but to strive to be actively good.

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