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Food is not evil, but gluttony is. Childbearing is not…

“Food is not evil, but gluttony is. Childbearing is not evil, but fornication is. Money is not evil, but avarice is. Glory is not evil, but vainglory is. Indeed, there is no evil in existing things, but only in their misuse.” quote by Maximus the Confessor
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“Food is not evil, but gluttony is. Childbearing is not evil, but fornication is. Money is not evil, but avarice is. Glory is not evil, but vainglory is. Indeed, there is no evil in existing things, but only in their misuse.”

Maximus the Confessor

About This Quote

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

Things are neutral; evil arises from misuse, not the objects themselves.

In simple terms: Objects aren't evil; misuse is.

Key Takeaway

Use things wisely.

Themes

ethics misuse morality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • eating habits
  • family planning
  • financial decisions
  • career ambition

Key Concepts

virtue self‑control intentionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits might you be misusing?
  • How can you align use with virtue?
A Different Perspective

Good intentions can be misapplied.

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