Analyzing a famous money quote

Analyzing a famous money quote

According to the Random House Dictionary of Proverbs and Sayings, the phrase “Money is the root of all evil” first appeared in English circa 1000 A.D. The saying originated in the New Testament. “For the love of money is the root of all evil.” Timothy, 6:10. Samuel Butler has also been credited with saying “The want of money is the root of all evil.” The two quotes basically share the same meaning, but are they true? Is money really the root of all evil?

Personally, I think the simple answer to the question is no, it’s just easier for us to blame money for the evil. If there were no money in the world then there would still be evil present. If you are the religious type the first act of evil occurred when Cain killed Able. There was no money involved, only jealousy. Not the religious type? School shooting are happening all across America, driven by money or fortune? No, driven again by jealousy and anger.

Don’t get me wrong, money is the cause of a lot of evil, but I’m still not convinced that money is the root of ALL evil. For example, the seven deadly sins would all be considered forms of evil. The first, lust deals with sexual desires and wants. The second, gluttony deals with over-indulgence, usually associated with food. The third is greed and is related to money. Fourth, sloth is laziness and having no desire to do anything with life. Fifth is wrath or anger. Sixth, envy, could be related to money but could also be related to someone else’s wife, children, life, etc. Finally, the seventh sin is pride or being boastful of ones accomplishments and failing to see the accomplishments of others. Not necessarily related to money.

As you can see there are many evils in life that are not related to money. The desire for money can be used for good but if not considered carefully can be a powerful force for evil.