To understand is to forgive

To understand is to forgive

Inspired by: Voltaire
  • Material & Color: Wood Gold
  • Width: 25.6 cm Height: 10.9 cm Depth: 3 cm
  • Weight: ~ 110 g
  • Line Height: 2.0
Regular price CHF 166.00
Regular price Sale price CHF 166.00
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Source or Inspiration

Voltaire has either originally stated or inspired this thought.

We try our best to credit the author of or the source inspiring us for this thought.

About this Thought

Have you ever felt the liberating power of forgiveness?

"To understand is to forgive" invites us to explore the profound link between truly understanding someone's actions and finding the strength to forgive them. It nudges us to look beyond the surface, to grasp the motives and circumstances that drive behavior. In doing so, we cultivate empathy, stepping into another's shoes and seeing the world through their eyes. Often, this journey of understanding reveals a simple truth: we are all imperfect, and mistakes are an inevitable part of the human experience.

Recognizing this can dissolve resentment, unlocking the door to forgiveness. But forgiveness isn’t just an act of generosity towards others - it’s a gift to ourselves. By letting go of grudges, we free our hearts from the weight of negative emotions, making space for healing and growth.

This timeless idea, often attributed to the French writer Voltaire, reminds us of the transformative power of empathy. While its origins may remain uncertain, the wisdom it offers is undeniable: understanding paves the way for a more compassionate and forgiving world.

Materials

All of our materials are selected with respect for the environment.

Wood White

Crafted from recycled paper with bamboo-like shiny edges and a matte white finish of the sculpture’s front and back side. For indoor use.

MANIFEST Material Wood White

Wood Gold

Crafted from recycled wood (medium-density fiberboard), this version is layered, laser-cut, and hand-finished in a champagne-like gold. For indoor use.

MANIFEST Material Wood Gold

Wood Copper

Like Wood Gold, this version is crafted from recycled wood and finished in a striking copper with bronze undertones. For indoor use.

MANIFEST Material Wood Copper

Aluminium

Lightweight yet durable, our aluminium sculptures are 3D printed and carefully manually finished. Resistant to corrosion, suitable for both indoor and outdoor placement.

MANIFEST Material Aluminium

Stainless Steel

Markedly heavier than aluminium and almost indestructible, stainless steel sculptures share a similar manual finish for dynamic light interactions. For indoor or outdoor settings.

MANIFEST Material Stainless Steel

Find out more about our collection of timeless materials here and more on the sustainable manufacturing of Thought Sculptures.

Shipping & Returns

Note that since each Thought Sculpture is custom produced after your order is placed, delivery time may take up to three weeks.

Also, since each sculpture is a unique bespoke creation, they cannot be returned. Sculptures arriving damaged upon delivery will be replaced by us.

For more details, visit our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.

Enjoying your Thought Sculpture

Thought Sculptures can be installed at home, at work, in team venues or in public spaces.

Play with the setting of your Thought Sculpture: Place it free standing, mounted on a wall or as a paperweight and try different background and light settings...

Find out everything about Thought Sculptures in our Sculpture Guide.

View full details

Answers to
Common Questions

How are your sculptures sustainable?

We believe that meaningful creations should respect the planet.

That’s why we use sustainable materials, our packaging is eco-friendly, and we strive to minimize our environmental footprint in every step of the process.

But beyond the traditional notion, Thought Sculptures are designed with the ultimate form of sustainability in mind: An object so meaningful and enduring that it can be kept for decades.

Discover everything about sustainability at MANIFEST here.

Can I customize a sculpture with my own message?

Absolutely! Your thoughts, your message.

Whether it’s a favorite quote, a personal mantra, or a meaningful lyric you want to turn into a Thought Sculpture.

Simply enter the text, select material and size, and we will hand-craft your unique custom Thought Sculpture and send it to you.

Start creating your own Thought Sculpture here.

How do shipping and delivery work?

While custom sculptures cannot be returned, any piece damaged upon arrival will be promptly replaced, ensuring your satisfaction and the integrity of your experience.

Due to the bespoke hand-crafted nature of each sculpture, please allow up to three weeks for delivery.

For more details, visit our Shipping PolicyRefund Policy and our Terms of Service.

What if my sculpture arrives damaged?

Your Thought Sculpture is carefully packaged for shipping. Should you nevertheless receive it damaged upon arrival, we will promptly replac it, ensuring your satisfaction.

Simply reach out to us within 3 days of delivery, and we’ll make it right.

Who are Thought Sculptures for?

Thought Sculptures are for anyone who values inspiration, meaningful thoughts or moments - whether you’re gifting a loved one, inspiring a team, or simply adding a personal touch to your space.

Our sculptures make thoughts tangible, helping you connect, reflect, and grow.

Thought Sculptures are perfect for homes, offices, team or retreat venues and schools or public spaces.

Can we custom order a large series of Thought Sculptures?

Of course! If the Thought Sculpture Creator on our page does not suit your needs or if you need thoughtful help to curate and create a series or collection for your business space, public space or for clients or partners, get in touch with us via [email protected].