"Bethink Yourselves!"

"Bethink Yourselves!" by Leo Tolstoy is a thought-provoking essay that questions the pointlessness of war and the ethical problems of a society struggling with violence, especially during the Russo-Japanese War. Tolstoy challenges readers to think deeply about what it means to be human, what is right and wrong, and the conflicting ideas behind civilization's violent acts in wartime. The essay strongly criticizes war, showing how powerful people in society cause violence while avoiding its harm. Tolstoy reveals how foolish it is for educated people to start conflicts using different excuses, pushing ordinary people to fight for their country instead of understanding that they are all human. He points out that real understanding cannot exist when war is celebrated, and he asks everyone, from soldiers to leaders, to carefully consider their part in continuing violence. Tolstoy uses the lessons of Jesus and stresses the importance of kindness and caring for others, passionately arguing for peace and asking people to change their actions to live a moral life that values love and understanding over hate and violence.