Image by Christine Sponchia from Pixabay
Although the Disney animated movie The Lion King was released back in 1994, it remains a popular fan favorite today. It’s evolved into a Broadway musical, and a live-action film is coming in 2019. The songs and popular lion king quotes are well-known among kids and adults.
The Lion King remains popular, in part, because of the powerful story. The movie chronicles the main character Simba, a lion cub who is destined to rule his land one day. A series of difficult events and learning experiences challenge him along the way, but thanks to love, friendship, and hard life lessons he eventually finds his place in the world.
Simba’s coming of age story is enjoyed by so many because it’s highly relatable, and the hilarious characters, charming anecdotes, and captivating storyline make it resonate with children and adults alike.
Whether you're searching for a little inspiration, some wisdom from a trusted advisor, or a perspective to make you smile, you can find it in this movie.
This collection of favorite Lion King quotes will make you smile and light your way in even the darkest of times.
How We Chose Our Quotes
If you’re a fan of the movie, you already know there is no shortage of Lion King quotes that could make this list. We grouped our favorites into three categories.
- Quotes that teach life lessons
- Quotes to make you smile
- Quotes to help you move on
We picked fan favorites in each of the three categories from the most memorable characters in the movie. We also organized our picks to keep you inspired whenever you need a pick me up.
Lion King Quotes that Teach Life Lessons
Not every lesson in life is an easy one to learn. Simba’s experiences weren’t always pleasant, but he always found a way to move forward towards his destiny. Here are a few tidbits that helped him pave the way.
“Oh yes, the past can hurt. But from the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” – Rafiki
Rafiki’s character is the quintessential wise man, and he helped to mentor Simba along the way. This quote helps us remember that our past doesn’t define us, and it makes us who we are today.
“Remember who you are.” – Mufasa
Sometimes, it’s hard to keep your eye on your goal and remember everything you’ve done to get this far. When a vision of his father, Mufasa comes to Simba and reminds him that it’s time to remember, he also reminds all of us not to lose sight of what makes us powerful and unique.
“You can’t change the past.” – Simba
Making peace with your past is one of the most challenging things you can do, but sometimes it’s essential to move on to the next big thing in life. Understanding that you can’t change it is the first step to acceptance.
“Life’s not fair, is it?” – Scar
Although Scar played the villainous uncle who was willing to do evil things to take the throne, he also had several lines that are worth remembering when you need a little inspiration.
His character was willing to do what was necessary to get what he desired, and he was incredibly pragmatic. If you ever need a reminder that sometimes things don’t go your way, but it doesn’t mean you can’t try, look to Scar for some insight.
“Change is good.” – Rafiki
Whether you’re stuck in a rut or scared of what comes next, this reminder that change can lead to positive things is always welcome when times get tough.
“I’m only brave when I have to be. Being brave doesn’t mean you go looking for trouble.” – Mufasa
One of the hardest life lessons to learn is what’s worth fighting for, and when to fight. Although this movie quote is part of a lighthearted scene, it’s a valuable commentary on daily life. Remember, it’s always good to fight for what you believe in, but there’s a time and a place for everything.
“Believe in yourself, and there will come a day when others will have no choice but to believe with you.” – Mufasa
You have to believe in your greatness before anyone else will. On days when you need a reminder that you are your biggest fan, this quote from Mufasa will give you the push you need to hold your head high.
Lion King Quotes that Remind You to Smile
Not every scene in the movie was a struggle. Thanks to loveable supporting characters, audiences got to laugh thanks to hilarious antics and funny quotes. These favorites are guaranteed to make you smile at the same time they help you look at the bright side of life.
“Can’t cut it out, it will grow right back.” – Rafiki
Rafiki may have been portrayed as the resident wise man, but he also had a set of hilarious quirks. He loved teaching Simba lessons with humor, and this quote is one that will make you smile while giving you a nudge in the right direction.
Just like a leopard can’t change its spots, we can’t change who we are at our very core. Don’t focus on things that will “grow right back,” and instead find ways to capitalize on your strengths and the things that make you great. They are what matters and where you should spend your time and energy every day.
“Hakuna Matata!” – Timon and Pumbaa
It’s more than just a wonderful phrase. In the movie, this is an example of one of the Lion King quotes where the two charming characters, Timon and Pumbaa, help Simba to let go of his guilt and his past. They tell us that it means “no worries, for the rest of your days,” and it’s their way of helping him to let it go.
In daily life, it’s a great reminder to let go of things you can’t control or change and to focus on the positive. There’s no reason to dwell in the past when you can let it go and move on.
Lion King Quotes That Help You Move On
No matter what type of loss you’re grieving, these quotes can help you find peace and comfort during difficult times.
“It’s the Circle of Life, and it moves us all, through despair and hope, through faith and love, ’til we find our place on the path unwinding.” – Rafiki
One of the most memorable songs from the movie was “The Circle of Life.” In it, we hear about the beautiful path that every being on the earth travels as it moves through their journey and how we all tie together.
If you ever need a little perspective to remember that the world is so much larger than just your path, read this quote to help refocus on your bigger purpose. If you need closure or help moving on, this is a beautiful way to remember that we all walk alongside each other every step of the way, even if we’re at different places in our journey.
“Everything you see exists together in a delicate balance. As king, you need to understand that balance and respect all the creatures, from the crawling ant to the leaping antelope.” – Mufasa
Whether you’re a king or simply a person trying to be the best version of yourself, it’s always powerful to remember that we are all part of a much larger picture.
“When we die, our bodies become the grass, and the antelope eat the grass. And so, we are all connected in the great Circle of Life…” – Mufasa
Loss and grief are hard to process, and everyone deals with them differently. For some, a reminder that we are all connected, even once we leave this life, can bring peace.
“Well, somebody once told me that the great kings of the past are up there, watching over us.” – Simba
No matter what you believe, there’s comfort to be found that those who love you are always watching over you and supporting you no matter where they are.
“Love will find a way, anywhere we go. We’re home if we are there together.” – Simba
Love is a powerful emotion. It can turn the biggest tragedy something you can manage. If you ever need a reminder that you’re not alone, remember that you are loved.
Finding Your Favorite
The best thing about movie quotes is that there is one for every occasion. The Lion King can inspire you, but it can also offer perspective and comfort when you need it.
You can write one on a note and leave it where you know you’ll see it, or set up a daily reminder with a different quote every day. Share the quotes with others to make them smile, and maybe even remind them of a favorite childhood movie.
And remember, you can always say “Hakuna Matata” and enjoy your day.
