The Kotzker Rebbe: Do Not Turn Hatred on Yourself

Not only is the one who hates his fellow called wicked, but the one who hates himself is also called wicked.

Attribution printed on the image: Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Kotzk

A reflection on the teaching

The severe language in this saying directs attention to the harm of turning hatred inward. We can acknowledge a fault without attacking our entire self. That distinction matters because repair requires a person willing to return and act. The quotation should not be used to shame someone who is already struggling with self-hatred. Its constructive invitation is to extend basic dignity to ourselves as well as to others. Replace one global accusation with a specific account: what happened, what needs correcting and what can I do next?

Source note: The attribution above is transcribed from the image. The exact source and English wording have not been independently verified.