“Radix malorum est cupiditas”
— Geoffrey Chaucer
Simplified Meaning:
This saying means that wanting too much money or possessions is the root of all evil. When people have a strong desire for wealth, they might do bad things to get it, like lying, stealing, or hurting others. For example, think of a person who wants to become very rich, no matter what it takes. They might cheat their friends, trick their customers, or even break the law just to make more money. In history, we can see how greed has led to wars, corruption, and suffering. So, the advice here is to be careful about letting the desire for money control your actions. It’s important to find balance and not let greed make you do things that harm yourself or others. By focusing on honest ways to achieve your goals, you can live a happier and more fulfilling life.