“This is the hardest of all: to close the open hand out of love, and keep modest as a giver.”
- October 15, 1844 – August 25, 1900
- Born in Germany
- Philosopher, poet, and classical philologist
- With works such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “The Genealogy of Morals,” he questioned traditional morality, religion, and truth, and had a major impact on modern philosophy.
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Quote
“This is the hardest of all: to close the open hand out of love, and keep modest as a giver.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche reflects on the true nature of giving and the difficulties involved in it. He suggests that the act of giving—whether love, generosity, or kindness—requires a great deal of self-control and modesty. Nietzsche points out that while it is easy to give freely and openly, the true challenge lies in giving with humility and without expectation of recognition or reward. To “close the open hand out of love” means to restrain oneself from seeking validation, attention, or thanks for the act of giving. It requires an inner strength to give without the desire for personal gain or to be acknowledged for one’s generosity. The “modesty” of the giver reflects a pure, unselfish form of generosity, where the act of giving itself is the reward, rather than any external benefit.
Historically, Nietzsche often critiqued self-serving morality and acts of charity that are motivated by ego, recognition, or the desire to appear virtuous. He believed that the highest form of giving came not from an external expectation or social norm but from a place of authentic love and selflessness. In this way, Nietzsche elevates the concept of giving as an act of personal discipline, where the giver transcends their own need for validation and remains focused on the sincerity of their offering.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a reminder to reflect on the true intention behind our actions, especially in a world that often values attention and status. Whether in relationships, philanthropy, or everyday acts of kindness, Nietzsche’s words challenge us to consider whether we give out of authentic care or whether we seek something in return, such as praise or recognition. The highest form of generosity, according to Nietzsche, is the ability to give freely, modestly, and without attachment, understanding that the value of the act lies in the giving itself, rather than in any external acknowledgment.
