Henry David Thoreau: Necessities of the Soul
on Wednesday, October 6, 2010Henry David Thoreau Money Quote saying the physical need for money has nothing at all to do with the metaphysical life. Henry David Thoreau said:
“Money is not required to buy one necessity of the soul” — Henry David Thoreau
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In this quote, Henry David Thoreau is suggesting that money is not necessary to fulfill certain spiritual or intellectual needs. When he refers to “one necessity of the soul”, he likely means things like inner peace, wisdom, creativity or meaningful thought.
Thoreau seems to be implying that while money can buy material goods and services, it cannot purchase qualities of the mind, heart or character that are important on a deeper human level.
His view suggests that true meaning, fulfillment or enrichment of the soul comes from within ourselves and through non-monetary means like nature, philosophy, relationships or creative expression – not from financial wealth alone.
The quote conveys Thoreau’s belief that there are important human needs beyond physical survival and comfort that money cannot satisfy.