Meaning: This quote is from a poem by Jupiter Hammon, a prominent African-American poet who lived during the 18th century. The quote reflects the themes of slavery, morality, and the treatment of property.

In the context of the time in which Hammon wrote, the quote can be interpreted as a message to slaves about the importance of respecting and taking care of their masters' belongings. It suggests that neglecting the property of their masters is a grave offense. However, the quote goes further to condemn the act of stealing and pilfering, emphasizing that it is even worse to take advantage of the opportunity to steal when one believes they will not be caught.

Jupiter Hammon was the first African-American writer to be published in the present-day United States, and his works provide valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of enslaved individuals during that period. As a devout Christian, Hammon often used his poetry to address moral and religious themes, and his writings were influenced by the prevailing social and political conditions of the time.

The quote can be seen as a reflection of the complex moral dilemmas faced by slaves in a society that condoned and perpetuated the institution of slavery. On one hand, slaves were expected to obey their masters and take care of their property, as failure to do so could result in severe punishment. On the other hand, the quote acknowledges the reality that some slaves resorted to stealing as a means of survival or resistance against their oppressive conditions.

Hammon's poetic expression of these ethical considerations is significant in understanding the internal conflicts and moral agency of enslaved individuals. The quote serves as a reminder of the dehumanizing effects of slavery, where individuals were forced to navigate conflicting values of obedience, survival, and justice within a system that denied them basic human rights and autonomy.

By addressing the issue of theft and dishonesty, Hammon's quote challenges the prevailing stereotypes and assumptions about the moral character of enslaved individuals. It highlights the complexity of their circumstances and the ethical choices they were compelled to make in the face of immense adversity.

Overall, Jupiter Hammon's quote from his poem provides a thought-provoking insight into the moral and ethical challenges faced by slaves in a society that upheld the oppressive institution of slavery. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and moral agency of enslaved individuals, as well as the enduring significance of their experiences in shaping our understanding of history and social justice.