Meaning: The quote "Worldly wealth is the Devil's bait; and those whose minds feed upon riches recede, in general, from real happiness, in proportion as their stores increase, as the moon, when she is fullest, is farthest from the sun." by Robert Burton, a 17th-century English writer, reflects a common theme found in many religious and philosophical traditions. In this quote, Burton suggests that an excessive focus on material wealth can lead individuals away from true happiness and fulfillment. He uses the metaphor of the moon being farthest from the sun when it is fullest to illustrate this idea.

Robert Burton was a scholar, writer, and clergyman best known for his influential work "The Anatomy of Melancholy," a comprehensive study of human emotions and behavior. In his writing, Burton often explored the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of happiness. This quote is a testament to his belief that true happiness cannot be found in the accumulation of material possessions.

The metaphor of the moon being farthest from the sun when it is fullest is a powerful and evocative image. In astronomical terms, the moon is at its fullest when it is opposite the sun in the sky, reflecting the maximum amount of sunlight. However, Burton uses this natural phenomenon to symbolize a spiritual and psychological truth: that those who are most consumed by their wealth and possessions are metaphorically farthest from the source of true happiness and fulfillment.

The idea that worldly wealth can be a "Devil's bait" is a common motif in religious and moral teachings. It reflects the notion that an excessive attachment to material possessions can lead individuals astray from virtuous and fulfilling lives. Many religious traditions caution against the dangers of greed and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of spiritual well-being.

Burton's quote also aligns with the philosophical concept of hedonic adaptation, which suggests that people have a tendency to return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events in their lives. This means that the pursuit of wealth and material possessions, while initially providing a sense of satisfaction, may ultimately lead to a diminishing return in terms of overall happiness.

In contemporary society, the message of Burton's quote remains relevant. The relentless pursuit of wealth and material success is often associated with high levels of stress, anxiety, and a lack of fulfillment. Research in the fields of psychology and economics has also demonstrated that beyond a certain threshold, increased wealth does not necessarily lead to increased happiness. Instead, factors such as strong social connections, a sense of purpose, and personal growth have been found to be more closely associated with overall well-being.

In conclusion, Robert Burton's quote serves as a timeless reminder of the potential pitfalls of an excessive focus on worldly wealth. By likening the pursuit of riches to the Devil's bait and using the metaphor of the moon and the sun, Burton emphasizes the idea that true happiness and fulfillment lie beyond the realm of material possessions. This message continues to resonate in contemporary society, offering a valuable perspective on the relationship between wealth and genuine well-being.