“He who wishes to be rich in a day will be hanged in a year.”
- April 15, 1452 – May 2, 1519
- Italian
- A versatile man (painter, sculptor, architect, inventor, scientist, etc.)
- He created many works of art, including the paintings “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” and also left behind many pioneering ideas in science and engineering, such as “blueprints for airplanes” and “anatomical studies.”
Quote
“He who wishes to be rich in a day will be hanged in a year.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leonardo da Vinci warns against the dangers of seeking rapid wealth through reckless or dishonest means. The desire to gain riches quickly, without regard for patience, wisdom, or integrity, can lead to destruction or downfall. Da Vinci’s phrase, “will be hanged in a year,” is metaphorical, suggesting that the consequences of greed and hasty ambition are severe and inevitable. Instead of pursuing wealth through shortcuts or unethical actions, the quote implies that true success requires time, effort, and moral integrity.
Historically, this idea reflects the Renaissance belief in virtue and long-term achievement. The period emphasized the importance of acquiring knowledge, wisdom, and ethical conduct over the mere accumulation of material wealth. Da Vinci himself, a polymath who valued science and art, would have seen the pursuit of wealth as less important than the pursuit of knowledge and personal development. His work focused on long-term learning and exploration rather than quick, superficial gains.
In modern terms, this quote serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of get-rich-quick schemes. Whether through fraud, speculation, or illegal means, seeking rapid wealth often leads to significant losses, both materially and morally. In today’s world, the principle of slow and steady progress—whether in business, finance, or personal growth—remains highly relevant. Da Vinci’s insight reminds us that true success and fulfillment are built over time through hard work, integrity, and responsibility, rather than fleeting shortcuts or greed.
