Wealth Through the Eyes of the Sages

During this difficult economic times I'm sure the thought of "being wealthy" has entered the minds of many. But what exactly is being wealthy? What did the philosophers over the ages have to say about wealth? Below are a view samplings of their viewpoints.

I am absolutely convinced that no wealth in the world can help humanity forward, even in the hands of the most devoted worker in this cause. The example of great and pure individuals is the only thing that can lead us to noble thoughts and deeds. Money only appeals to selfishness and irresistibly invites abuse. Can anyone imagine Moses, Jesus, or Gandhi armed with the money-bags of Carnegie? Albert Einstein (1879-1955)

We are taxed twice as much by our Idleness, three times as much by our Pride, and four times as much by our Folly, and from these Taxes the Commissioners cannot ease or deliver us by allowing an Abatement. However let us hearken [sic] to good Advice, and something may be done for us; God helps them that help themselves, as Poor Richard says, in his Almanack of 1733.

-- Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), The Way To Wealth

Your name or your person,

Which is dearer?

Your person or your goods,

Which is worth more?

Gain or loss,

Which is a greater bane?

-- Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

Without a rich heart wealth is an ugly beggar.

-- Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882), "On Wealth"

Most of the luxuries, and many of the so-called comforts of life, are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind. With respect to luxuries and comforts, the wisest have ever lived a more simple and meager life than the poor. The ancient philosophers, Chinese, Hindu [sic], Persian, and Greek, were a class than which none has been poorer in outward riches, none so rich in inward. We know not much about them. It is remarkable that we know so much of them as we do. The same is true of the more modern reformers and benefactors of their race. None can be an impartial or wise observer of human life but from the vantage ground of what we should call voluntary poverty.

-- Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), "Walden"

Very interesting take on what these great philosophers have to say about wealth. When you find yourself desiring MORE, perhaps read through these viewpoints one more time.

Namaste,

Mary Jane - Feng Shui Master & Yogi

www.fengshuiyoganj.com