We often think that wealth comes from accumulation. We make money, buy things, acquire knowledge, keep secrets of success, build collections, conserve resources, but there is a profound paradox. Things we hold on to too tightly are often lost without proper use. This paradox is perfectly explained by an old proverb, which is related to Georgian literature.Today’s Georgian proverb is: What we give makes us richer; what we hoard is lost.The medieval poet Shota Rustaveli wrote this profound discussion in his epic work “The Knight of Black Panther’s Skin”. This work was written in the 12th or 13th century, belonging to the Georgian Golden Age. Set in India and Arabia, this fictional masterpiece tells the story of two heroes, Avtandil and Tahril, and their search for their love interest, Nestan-Daryjan, the allegorical incarnation of Queen Tamar.Coming back to this proverb, it teaches the actual meaning of wealth, which is not possession but having a different value. True wealth is not measured by what is in our hands, but by what flows through our hands. The things we share become part of a larger story. They shape the lives of others, impact generations to come, and create meaning beyond our own.When we give, whether it’s wealth, knowledge, or love, we transform stagnant resources into living connections. Similar statements are made in many other countries and cultures that what we give in return comes in many forms. What we don’t give is wasted because it doesn’t live on after we die.
Money, Knowledge, Love: How Georgian Proverb Applies to everything
Medieval proverbs hold true even for material wealth. For example, currency stagnant in vaults loses its economic power and purchasing value due to inflation. More importantly, it loses its utility. The value of wealth depends on the good it can do.If a master craftsman or a brilliant scientist refuses to share their insights out of fear of competition, that knowledge is lost. It becomes completely useless. However, when taught to others, it multiplies and grows.You cannot preserve love for a rainy day by withholding it now. Emotional hoarding can lead to isolation. Affection, empathy, and kindness only truly exist and grow when actively given to others.The main takeaway from these words of wisdom is that every material possession is temporary.
