Accustomed Quote by Maimonides
“The soul, when accustomed to superfluous things, acquires a strong habit of desiring things which are neither necessary for the preservation of the individual nor for that of the species. This desire is without limit, whilst those which are necessary are few in number and restricted within certain limits; but what is superfluous is without end.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Guide for the Perplexed, 1190
Excessive desire for non‑essential luxuries overwhelms the limited, necessary needs of individuals and societies.
In simple terms: Too many wants crowd out true needs.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize essentials over excess.
Themes
desire
moderation
human nature
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- budgeting
- health
- environmental sustainability
- consumer behavior
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What non‑essential desire dominates your life?
- How can you balance need and want?
A Different Perspective
Limiting desire can be socially and economically challenging.
![“WHEN reading my present treatise, bear in mind that by "faith" we do not understand merely that which is uttered with the lips, but also that which is apprehended by the soul, the conviction that the object [of belief] is exactly as it is apprehended. If, as regards real or supposed truths, you…” quote by Maimonides](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fbb/maimonides-2639_articles_when-reading-my-present-treatise-bear-in_78488.jpg)
