To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
To err is human, to repent divine; to persist devilish.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Making mistakes is a natural part of being human, but seeking forgiveness is a noble act, while refusing to change is less admirable.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin highlights the inherent nature of humans to make mistakes and the importance of repentance as a positive response. It suggests that acknowledging our errors is a fundamental human trait, while genuine repentance reflects a higher moral character, and persisting in wrongdoing can be viewed as a more negative trait, akin to being devilish.
Themes
ErrorRepentanceHumanityMistakePerseverance
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about personal growth, one might say, 'Remember, to err is human, to repent divine; to persist devilish.'
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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..avoiding likewise the accumulation of debt, not only by shunning occasions of expense, but by vigorous exertions in time of peace to discharge the debts, which unavoidable wars may have occasioned, not ungenerously throwing upon posterity the burthen, which we ourselves ought to bear.
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