There is no happiness for people at the expense of other people.

In this quote, Anwar Sadat asserts that true happiness cannot be achieved by causing harm or exploiting others. He emphasizes the idea that selfishness and the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others ultimately lead to false or unfulfilling happiness. The message suggests that any happiness derived from oppression, injustice, or inequality is hollow and cannot be sustained in the long run.

Sadat’s belief speaks to the moral and ethical responsibility individuals have toward one another in society. True happiness, he implies, comes from living in a way that respects the well-being and dignity of others, rather than benefiting from their suffering. His words serve as a reminder that compassion and fairness are essential to achieving lasting joy and fulfillment, and that selfish actions that harm others ultimately degrade one’s sense of inner peace.

The origin of this quote lies in Sadat's commitment to promoting peace and justice. As the president of Egypt, he worked towards resolving conflicts in the Middle East, and his philosophy reflected a deep belief in the importance of mutual respect and cooperation among nations and peoples. This quote likely stems from his efforts to encourage a more just world, where happiness is not built on the misfortune of others, but on collective well-being and shared prosperity.

Ultimately, Sadat’s message stresses the importance of unity and solidarity for the greater good. Happiness that comes at the expense of others is fleeting and unsustainable, while a more ethical, compassionate pursuit of joy leads to lasting fulfillment. The quote invites reflection on the impact of our actions and reminds us that true contentment arises from lifting others up, rather than stepping on them for personal gain.