Albert Schweitzer Quotes, born January 14, 1875, in Kaysersberg, Alsace (then part of Germany), was an Alsatian polymath—philosopher, theologian, physician, musician, and humanitarian. Renowned for founding the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné, Gabon, he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952 for his philosophy of “Reverence for Life.” A scholar of Bach and a skilled organist, Schweitzer also challenged secular views of Jesus in works like The Quest of the Historical Jesus (1906). These 15 quotes—sourced from his books, speeches, interviews, and public statements—reflect his profound insights on compassion, service, ethics, and the interconnectedness of life, capturing his enduring legacy as a beacon of humanity.
15 Albert Schweitzer Quotes
- “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” (Book, The Philosophy of Civilization, 1923)
- “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Until he extends his circle of compassion to all living things, man will not himself find peace.” (Book, The Philosophy of Civilization, 1923)
- “In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being.” (Book, Out of My Life and Thought, 1933)
- “Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.” (Book, The Philosophy of Civilization, 1923)
- “Ethics is nothing other than Reverence for Life.” (Book, Civilization and Ethics, 1923)
- “Do something wonderful, people may imitate it.” (Speech, AZQuotes, n.d.)
- “There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.” (Statement, Goodreads, n.d.)
- “Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate.” (Book, Out of My Life and Thought, 1933)
- “The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” (Speech, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The tragedy of life is what dies inside a man while he lives.” (Book, Reverence for Life, 1966)
- “If you love something so much let it go. If it comes back it was meant to be; if it doesn’t it never was.” (Statement, Goodreads, n.d.)
- “The thinking person must oppose all cruel customs, no matter how deeply rooted in tradition.” (Book, The Philosophy of Civilization, 1923)
- “My life is my argument.” (Interview, Wisdom Quotes, n.d.)
- “The only thing of importance, when we depart, will be the traces of love we have left behind.” (Book, Reverence for Life, 1966)
Albert Schweitzer’s quotes radiate compassion, urging us to serve others, revere all life, and lead by example with kindness and purpose. Which one inspires you to light a spark in the world? Share it in the comments and keep Schweitzer’s humanitarian legacy thriving!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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