Covetousness Quote by John Milton
“Though we take from a covetous man all his treasure, he has yet one jewel left; you cannot bereave him of his covetousness.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Paradise Lost, Book I, 1667
Covetousness cannot be taken away; material loss does not affect greed.
In simple terms: Greed persists despite loss.
Recognize that taking wealth doesn't change greed.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal disputes
- inheritance
- business negotiations
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you change someone's greed by altering their possessions?
- What non‑material ways reduce greed?
Greed may be mitigated by moral education, not just material loss.