If you get down and quarell everyday, you’re saying prayers to the devil.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote uses a vivid metaphor to portray the destructive consequences of constant conflict and negativity. The act of quarrelling every day, of always being mired in conflict and negativity, is likened to "saying prayers to the devil." In essence, it suggests that continuously engaging in such negative actions is akin to worshipping or giving energy to destructive forces, metaphorically represented as "the devil". These destructive forces could be anger, hate, resentment, or any other negative emotion that arises from constant quarrelling. If you're constantly fighting and arguing, you're fostering a hostile, toxic environment that can be detrimental to your peace of mind, relationships, and overall well-being. Instead of promoting understanding, love, and positivity, you're feeding the cycle of negativity. This quote serves as a stark reminder to choose our battles wisely, to focus on constructive communication and to foster positive, uplifting emotions instead of wallowing in the destructive ones. It’s a call to shift our energy from continuous conflict towards mutual understanding and peace.
Who said the quote?
The quote "If you get down and quarell everyday, you're saying prayers to the devil" was said by Bob Marley (Bio / Quotes). Bob Marley was a Jamaican singer-songwriter who is considered one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
A historical example that vividly illustrates the message of this quote can be found in the French Revolution, particularly during the Reign of Terror (1793-1794). This period of the Revolution was marked by extreme violence, paranoia, and relentless conflict, all in the name of preserving the revolution from its perceived enemies.
The Revolution initially began with noble ideals: liberty, equality, and fraternity. The French people sought to overthrow a corrupt monarchy and establish a society based on democratic principles. However, as the Revolution progressed, internal divisions grew among the revolutionaries themselves. Different factions—such as the Jacobins, Girondins, and others—began to view each other not just as political opponents but as mortal enemies.
The Jacobins, led by figures like Maximilien Robespierre, believed that the survival of the Revolution required purging all opposition, including those who were merely suspected of counter-revolutionary thoughts. This belief led to the infamous Reign of Terror, where thousands were guillotined, often on flimsy evidence. The daily quarrels and conflicts among the revolutionaries turned the Revolution from a movement of hope into one of terror and fear. In their relentless pursuit of ideological purity and power, they essentially "said prayers to the devil" by perpetuating a cycle of violence and retribution.
The constant infighting and suspicion ultimately weakened the very cause they sought to protect. Robespierre himself, who had been a key architect of the Terror, was eventually arrested and executed by his former allies, who feared for their own lives. The Revolution, which had begun with such high ideals, had devolved into a bloodbath, where the original goals were lost amid the chaos of daily quarrels and violence.
This historical example shows how constant conflict, even when done in the name of a noble cause, can lead to destruction and moral decay. By engaging in daily quarrels and fueling division, the revolutionaries allowed the worst aspects of human nature to take over, leading to outcomes that were antithetical to their original intentions.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In a real-life scenario, this quote can be applied to the context of personal relationships, particularly within a family or close-knit community. Imagine a family where minor disagreements are allowed to escalate into daily arguments. Each member of the family might feel justified in their anger, believing they are standing up for their rights or principles. However, over time, these constant quarrels can create an atmosphere of hostility and resentment. The home, which should be a place of peace and support, becomes a battleground, where love and trust are eroded by the constant conflict.
For example, consider a married couple who argue every day over small issues—chores, finances, or differing opinions on raising their children. Initially, these arguments might seem trivial, but as they become a daily occurrence, they start to undermine the foundation of their relationship. The couple may begin to view each other not as partners but as adversaries, and the home, instead of being a sanctuary, becomes a source of stress and unhappiness.
In this scenario, the couple is "saying prayers to the devil" by allowing negativity and conflict to dominate their relationship. Instead of focusing on resolving their issues constructively, they become trapped in a cycle of blame and anger. Over time, this can lead to serious consequences, such as emotional distance, a breakdown in communication, and even the dissolution of the relationship.
To avoid this, the couple needs to recognize the destructive pattern and consciously choose to break it. This might involve seeking counseling, learning better communication skills, or simply making a commitment to address disagreements with patience and understanding rather than anger. By choosing to nurture their relationship with love and respect, they can prevent daily quarrels from turning into something far more damaging.
In essence, the quote reminds us that the way we handle conflict in our daily lives can have profound consequences. If we allow ourselves to be consumed by anger and negativity, we invite destructive forces into our lives. However, by striving for peace and understanding, we can create a more positive and harmonious environment, both for ourselves and those around us.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
