Take the decision in early March to arrest Muqtada al-Sadr. It was made apparently without knowledge or understanding of the nature of his movement or how widespread it is.

Meaning

The quote reflects a simple truth about wisdom. It conveys that wisdom grows through experience, while hinting that understanding takes time.

Theme

Across cultures, wisdom remains a recurring subject. Many reflect on it since wisdom guides important decisions. This quote fits that tradition, highlighting that listening brings understanding.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Juan Cole. This one stands out due to its focus on wisdom.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
wisdom grows through experience.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about wisdom, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we learn from our experiences.