Sextus Propertius: 'Every man now worships gold, all other reverence being done away.'

Every man now worships gold, all other reverence being done away.

In Sextus Propertius' famous quote, "Every man now worships gold, all other reverence being done away," he encapsulates a prevailing sentiment that has transcended time and continues to hold true in contemporary society. The quote suggests that the pursuit of material wealth has become a dominant and all-encompassing force, consuming the attention and aspirations of humanity while diminishing other forms of reverence. This statement touches upon the widespread preoccupation with wealth and the subsequent erosion of values that traditionally held significance.The meaning behind this quote is straightforward and can be understood at face value. It highlights humanity's growing infatuation with gold, a symbol of wealth and affluence. In today's world, the pursuit of financial prosperity often takes precedence over other aspects of life that used to command respect and admiration. Priorities have shifted, and the acquisition of material wealth has become the ultimate goal for many individuals.But what lies beneath this surface interpretation of the quote? Is the worship of gold truly the cause for the decline of other forms of reverence, or is there something deeper at play? This is where an unexpected philosophical concept can lend an intriguing perspective to the analysis.One such concept is the idea of the "Golden Mean," espoused by ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. The Golden Mean suggests that virtue resides in finding a balance between extremes. This notion prompts us to question whether the worship of gold is inherently wrong or if it is the unchecked pursuit of wealth that leads to the erosion of other values.When examining the quote through the lens of the Golden Mean, it becomes apparent that the issue lies not in the desire for wealth but in the excessive pursuit of it. After all, wealth itself is not inherently negative, but rather the obsession with it at the expense of other aspects of life. In this light, the quote serves as a cautionary reminder that the unbridled pursuit of material possessions can blur one's perspective and hinder the nurturing of other values.To better comprehend the contrast between the worship of gold and the preservation of other forms of reverence, it is important to acknowledge what these "other" reverences entail. Before the ascendancy of gold as the modern deity, qualities such as love, compassion, friendship, knowledge, and spirituality were revered and celebrated as guiding principles of human existence. These virtues represented the cornerstone of society and individuals' fulfillment amidst a world that valued more than mere material wealth.The quote by Sextus Propertius raises a thought-provoking question: Can these "other" forms of reverence exist in harmony alongside the pursuit of gold, or is their demise an inevitable consequence? While the prevalent materialistic culture often obscures the importance of these virtues, it is vital to understand that they have not vanished altogether.Within the tapestry of human experience, we continue to witness individuals who resist the allure of wealth and endeavor to cultivate values beyond monetary concerns. They contribute to the fabric of compassionate societies, champion intellectual pursuits, and nurture deep connections. Their embrace of these "other" forms of reverence challenges the notion that gold is the sole object of veneration.Ultimately, the quote by Sextus Propertius acts as a powerful reflection of our collective psyche. It urges us to acknowledge the prevailing worship of gold while also reminding us of the significance of the "other" forms of reverence that shape our lives. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious balance between the pursuit of wealth and the nurturing of values that extend beyond material gain.In conclusion, the quote serves as a poignant commentary on the state of our society, where the worship of gold often overshadows other forms of reverence. However, by exploring the philosophical concept of the Golden Mean, we uncover a more nuanced understanding of the issue. The excessive pursuit of wealth eclipses the cultivation of virtues that were once held dear. Yet, within the tapestry of human existence, there are individuals who continue to champion these "other" forms of reverence, proving that the pursuit of gold need not be all-encompassing. It is through acknowledging this delicate balance that we can strive for a more fulfilled and meaningful existence, unmarred by the narrow focus on material wealth.