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Borrow Quote by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

“To borrow scarce is better than to beg; As lending, lending upon interest, Scarce better is than stealing.” quote by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
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“To borrow scarce is better than to beg; As lending, lending upon interest, Scarce better is than stealing.”

Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

About This Quote

Source Play: “Minna von Barnhelm”, 1767

Borrowing is preferable to begging; lending with interest is better than stealing.

In simple terms: Borrow, don’t beg; interest better than theft.

Key Takeaway

Choose ethical borrowing.

Themes

ethics economics morality

Mood

thought‑provoking critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • financial advice
  • ethical debates
  • education

Key Concepts

philosophy theatre

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is borrowing ethical?
  • What alternatives exist to interest?
A Different Perspective

Interest can exploit the poor.

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