They know no END of their good nor beginning of any goodness

Insights

Materialism vs. Morality

The proverb presents a sharp critique of materialism, suggesting that the endless pursuit of wealth is a hollow endeavor if it is not accompanied by the development of ethical character or spiritual depth.

Spiritual Poverty amidst Riches

It illustrates the paradox of being rich in possessions but poor in spirit. The contrast between infinite material 'good' and a complete absence of moral 'goodness' highlights a profound spiritual bankruptcy.

Avarice and Moral Stagnation

The proverb describes a state of moral paralysis induced by greed. The obsession with accumulating more ('no end') actively prevents any moral action or self-improvement from ever starting ('no beginning').

Moral and Religious Context

This proverb reflects a deep-seated ethical tension, particularly within Christian traditions, contrasting worldly possessions with spiritual virtue. It serves as a concise critique of materialism, echoing biblical warnings about the moral perils of wealth.

Psychology of Avarice

The proverb offers a psychological portrait of insatiable greed. The individual described is trapped in an endless cycle of acquisition ('no end') that perpetually prevents the initiation of moral or personal growth ('no beginning'), suggesting a state of spiritual stagnation caused by avarice.

Social Critique

As a form of social commentary, the proverb critiques the newly affluent classes of the 16th and 17th centuries. It questions the value of wealth when it is decoupled from traditional virtues, implying that material gain without moral substance is ultimately empty.

Rhetorical Devices

Antithesis and Parallelism

The proverb is built on a stark antithesis between 'no end of their good' and 'no beginning of any goodness'. This balanced, parallel structure creates a powerful rhetorical contrast that is both memorable and impactful.

Wordplay

A sophisticated pun turns on the distinction between 'good' (interpreted as material goods) and 'goodness' (moral virtue). This wordplay is central to the proverb's message.

Hyperbole

The phrase 'no end' is a deliberate exaggeration used to emphasize the boundless nature of the person's wealth and, by implication, their insatiable greed.