Be not disturbed by being misunderstood; be disturbed by not understanding.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

Not understanding given priority over being misunderstood redirects attention from reputation to one’s own knowledge. The saying values inquiry instead of only correcting others’ impressions.

What the words are saying

A responsible reading does not make misunderstanding harmless or require accepting unfair accusations. A useful application can ask what one needs to learn while still clarifying a consequential mistake. Concern about how others understand an issue can also be legitimate, especially when decisions affect people.

Everyday example

Someone checks what they may have missed and then clarifies an important misinterpretation respectfully.

When to use it

Use it to discuss learning alongside necessary clarification.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.