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Riches are the pettiest and least worthy gifts which God…

“Riches are the pettiest and least worthy gifts which God can give a man. What are they to God's Word, to bodily gifts, such as beauty and health; or to the gifts of the mind, such as understanding, skill, wisdom! Yet men toil for them day and night, and take no rest. Therefore God commonly gives…” quote by Martin Luther
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“Riches are the pettiest and least worthy gifts which God can give a man. What are they to God's Word, to bodily gifts, such as beauty and health; or to the gifts of the mind, such as understanding, skill, wisdom! Yet men toil for them day and night, and take no rest. Therefore God commonly gives riches to foolish people to whom he gives nothing else.”

Martin Luther

About This Quote

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

Wealth is a trivial, unworthy gift compared to spiritual and intellectual blessings; people labor for it obsessively, while God often bestows it on the foolish who lack other gifts.

In simple terms: Riches are lowly compared to spiritual and mental gifts.

Key Takeaway

Value deeper gifts over material wealth.

Themes

spirituality materialism humility wisdom

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical religious

When to use this quote

  • preaching
  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

theology human nature value hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truly enriches your life?
  • How can you prioritize non‑material gifts?
A Different Perspective

Material wealth can distract from spiritual growth.

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