“You can bear your own faults, and why not a fault in your wife?”
- January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790
- American
- Polymath, Founding Father of the United States, Inventor, Diplomat, Writer
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Quote
“You can bear your own faults, and why not a fault in your wife?”
Explanation
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin delivers a pointed reminder about tolerance and perspective within relationships, especially marriage. He notes the human tendency to overlook or excuse our own flaws, yet judge others—particularly those close to us—more harshly. By asking, “why not a fault in your wife?”, he challenges the reader to apply the same patience and understanding to a spouse that they naturally grant themselves.
Franklin, though known for his wit and sometimes skeptical view of domestic life, often used such sayings to encourage practical wisdom and harmony in personal conduct. In the 18th century, marriage was seen as a social and moral partnership, and Franklin’s quote reflects the Enlightenment ideal of mutual respect and self-awareness within that union. He suggests that empathy and humility are essential to maintaining peace and affection in close relationships.
This advice remains deeply relevant today. In marriages and partnerships, conflict often arises not from major betrayals, but from daily irritations and unrealistic expectations. Franklin’s words encourage us to extend the same grace to others that we instinctively give ourselves, recognizing that imperfection is part of being human—and that understanding this is key to enduring love and companionship.
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