Better to be disliked than pitied

Better to be disliked than pitied

Abba Eban, the renowned Israeli diplomat and politician, once famously said, "Better to be disliked than pitied." This statement encapsulates Eban's belief in the importance of maintaining one's dignity and self-respect, even in the face of criticism or disapproval from others. Eban's words reflect his understanding that being pitied can be a form of condescension, while being disliked may indicate that one is standing up for their beliefs and principles.

Eban's career was marked by his unwavering commitment to the state of Israel and his tireless efforts to promote peace and diplomacy in the Middle East. As a key figure in the early years of the Israeli state, Eban faced criticism and opposition from many quarters, both within Israel and internationally. However, he never wavered in his dedication to his country and his belief in the power of diplomacy to resolve conflicts.

Eban's statement, "Better to be disliked than pitied," can be seen as a reflection of his own experiences in the political arena. Throughout his career, Eban was often at odds with his critics and opponents, who viewed him as too conciliatory or too hawkish, depending on their perspective. However, Eban remained steadfast in his convictions and never allowed himself to be swayed by public opinion or popular sentiment.