Adages Quote by St. Jerome
“For all riches come from iniquity, and unless one were to lose another could not gain. Hence the common adage seems to me to be very true: The rich man is unjust or the heir of an unjust one.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Epistle to Eusebius, 4th Century AD
Wealth often arises from injustice; gaining more usually requires taking from others, confirming that riches are linked to immorality.
In simple terms: Wealth frequently comes from unjust means.
Question the moral source of wealth.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political activism
- financial education
- charitable giving
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to acquire wealth ethically?
- How can societies reduce unjust enrichment?
Not all wealth is unjust; context matters.