Courage ought to have eyes as well as arms.

The quote "Courage ought to have eyes as well as arms" by Henry George Bohn suggests that true courage requires more than just bold action—it also requires wisdom and foresight. Bohn, a British writer and philosopher, emphasizes that courage alone is not enough if it is not guided by clear judgment and awareness. Just as arms are necessary for physical action, eyes are needed to assess the situation, understand the consequences, and make thoughtful decisions.

In this context, the quote implies that while courage may push individuals to face challenges, it is equally important to approach those challenges with clarity and insight. Blind bravery can lead to reckless actions, while courage paired with vision allows one to navigate obstacles more effectively. Having eyes metaphorically represents the ability to see the bigger picture and consider the best course of action before diving in.

Bohn’s quote highlights the balance between action and reflection. Courage must be tempered with the ability to evaluate risks and plan accordingly. This combination of bravery and discernment leads to more successful outcomes, as individuals act with both boldness and wisdom.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder that true courage is not just about facing fears or acting without hesitation, but about doing so with the clarity and understanding necessary to ensure that the actions we take are both effective and thoughtful. It encourages us to combine bravery with awareness, ensuring that we act wisely in the pursuit of our goals.