Suurieleisiä

Suurieleisiä is an Estonian term used to describe people who are magnanimous, broad-minded, or generous in spirit. It denotes a quality of thoughtfulness and openness toward others, often accompanied by tolerance, mercy, and a willingness to act for the common good. In contemporary usage, suurieleised individuals are praised for putting communal or humane considerations above personal gain.

The concept sits within a family of related Estonian terms that express benevolence and generous-mindedness. Its closest relatives include suurmeelne (magnanimous) and suuremeelsus (magnanimity or generosity of spirit). Together, these words articulate a cultural ideal of ethical conduct that values empathy, restraint, and cooperative attitudes, especially in social or political discourse.

Usage and tone vary by context. In literature and journalism, suurieleiseid is often employed to commend acts of solidarity, aid to others, or constructive, tolerant engagement with differing viewpoints. While the exact nuance can shift with context, the underlying emphasis remains on inner qualities rather than external status or material wealth.

See also: Magnanimity, Generosity, Suuremeelsus, Suuremeelne.