Equality lies only in human moral dignity. ... Let there be brothers first, then there will be brotherhood, and only then will there be a fair sharing of goods among brothers.

The world stands on absurdities, and without them perhaps nothing at all would happen.

Much unhappiness has come into the world because of bewilderment and things left unsaid.

Alyosha's heart could not bear uncertainty, for the nature of his love was always active. He could not love passively; once he loved, he immediately also began to help.

Life is paradise, and we are all in paradise, but we refuse to see it.

Since man cannot live without miracles, he will provide himself with miracles of his own making. He will believe in witchcraft and sorcery, even though he may otherwise be a heretic, an atheist, and a rebel.

Lying is a delightful thing, for it leads to truth.