“Give to everyone who begs from you; and of him who takes away your goods do not ask them again. And as you wish that men would do to you, do so to them.”
- 6-4 BC – 30 or 33 AD
- From Judea (present-day Israel/Palestine)
- Religious leader and evangelist
- Founder of Christianity, who had a major impact on religions and cultures around the world
Quote
“Give to everyone who begs from you; and of him who takes away your goods do not ask them again. And as you wish that men would do to you, do so to them.”
Explanation
This quote from Jesus emphasizes generosity, selflessness, and the principle of treating others with compassion and respect. The first part, “Give to everyone who begs from you,” encourages an open-hearted response to those in need, urging people to be generous without hesitation. Jesus further extends this by saying, “of him who takes away your goods do not ask them again,” which calls for a radical forgiveness and the willingness to let go of material possessions, even if they are taken from us. The final statement, “And as you wish that men would do to you, do so to them,” is the well-known Golden Rule, which encapsulates the idea of treating others with the same kindness, fairness, and respect that we would want for ourselves.
Historically, this teaching comes from the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus speaks about love and forgiveness, challenging the conventional norms of retaliation and self-interest. In a time when personal rights and property were highly valued, Jesus urged his followers to go beyond legalistic justice and embrace a spirit of grace and mercy. The passage emphasizes that true discipleship involves both a radical generosity towards others and a forgiving heart that does not seek revenge.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a guide for building compassionate communities and relationships. It challenges individuals to practice empathy and forgiveness, even when faced with injustice or personal loss. For example, in a society that often values success, competition, and ownership, this teaching encourages people to focus on humility, charity, and treating others with dignity. Whether it’s helping someone in need, forgiving a debt, or simply showing kindness to others, this message calls for a lifestyle rooted in the principles of love and respect, fostering peace and mutual care in our daily interactions.
