Skip to content

Ambition Quote by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

“My God, grant that my bounty may be a clear and transparent river, flowing from pure charity, and uncontaminated by self-love, ambition, or interest. Thanks are due not to me, but Thee, from whom all I possess is derived. And what are the paltry gifts for which my neighbor forgets to thank me…” quote by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
Download Open image
“My God, grant that my bounty may be a clear and transparent river, flowing from pure charity, and uncontaminated by self-love, ambition, or interest. Thanks are due not to me, but Thee, from whom all I possess is derived. And what are the paltry gifts for which my neighbor forgets to thank me, compared with the immense blessings for which I have so often forgotten to be grateful to Thee!”

Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

About This Quote

Source Play: Nathan the Wise, 1779

He prays for pure, selfless generosity, acknowledging all blessings come from a higher source and urging gratitude.

In simple terms: Seeks selfless giving and gratitude.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and thankfulness.

Themes

spirituality gratitude humility

Mood

contemplative humble

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • charitable acts
  • personal reflection
  • community service

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics religion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What prevents you from giving selflessly?
  • How can you recognize unseen blessings?
A Different Perspective

Human selfishness often hinders true generosity.

4.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

Explore all 68 Gotthold Ephraim Lessing quotes

More Ambition quotes

Browse all 4,601 Ambition quotes