If a piece of worthless stone can bruise a cup of gold…
“If a piece of worthless stone can bruise a cup of gold, its worth is not increased, nor that of the gold diminished.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
External damage does not alter inherent value; worth is intrinsic.
In simple terms: Value stays the same despite harm.
Recognize intrinsic worth regardless of external bruises.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal criticism
- material loss
- emotional hurt
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain self‑worth after criticism?
- Can external damage ever truly diminish inner value?
Worth can be perceived differently by observers.