proverb · Words worth keeping
The liberal man deviseth liberal things.
The liberal man deviseth liberal things.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A generous person looks for ways to act generously. Devising suggests that kindness can involve deliberate planning, rather than only an impulsive gift.
Example
A neighbour asks what would be useful before organising practical assistance for a friend.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Liberal here is read as generous or open-handed, rather than as a political label. The repetition joins disposition with action: a person who values generosity also thinks about what form it could take. The saying can encourage thoughtful help that fits a real need and the resources available. It does not require giving without limits or assume that good intentions always produce useful assistance. A careful application includes listening to the person who might receive help and respecting their choice about it.
When to use it
Use it to appreciate generosity expressed through thoughtful, concrete plans.
Keep in mind
Generosity can have boundaries, and unrequested help is not always welcome.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English