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Money Quote by George MacDonald

“but he had a great respect for money, and much overrated its value as a means of doing even what he called good: religious people generally do -- with a most unchristian dulness. We are not told that the Master made the smallest use of money for his end. When he paid the temple-rate, he did it to…” quote by George MacDonald
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““but he had a great respect for money, and much overrated its value as a means of doing even what he called good: religious people generally do -- with a most unchristian dulness. We are not told that the Master made the smallest use of money for his end. When he paid the temple-rate, he did it to avoid giving offence; and he defended the woman who divinely wasted it.””

George MacDonald

About This Quote

Source Book: The Lost Princess, 1884

He critiques the misuse of money for supposedly noble purposes, noting that even religious people can be overly cautious and uncreative with wealth.

In simple terms: Money can corrupt good intentions.

Key Takeaway

Question the motives behind charitable spending.

Themes

money religion ethics value critique

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • charitable giving
  • religious institutions
  • personal finance
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

materialism moral hypocrisy religious practice financial stewardship

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your financial choices?
  • Can generosity be genuine without ulterior motives?
A Different Perspective

Money alone cannot guarantee moral purity.

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