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He can give little to his servant, that lickes his knife…

“He can give little to his servant, that lickes his knife. [He can give little to his servant that licks his knife.]” quote by George Herbert
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“He can give little to his servant, that lickes his knife. [He can give little to his servant that licks his knife.]”

George Herbert

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A servant who offers little yet is eager (symbolized by licking the knife) reflects false devotion.

In simple terms: False devotion is shown by offering little but being eager.

Key Takeaway

Seek genuine, generous service.

Themes

faith service hypocrisy

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • church duties
  • volunteer work
  • leadership
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

spiritual integrity motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates genuine service?
  • How can you discern true devotion?
A Different Perspective

Some may be genuinely humble despite small offerings.

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