Literal translation
he is not rich who has possessions, but he who is content
Meaning
rich is not who owns much, but who is content
Explanation
This proverb shifts the definition of wealth from the material domain, the possession of goods, to the inner domain, satisfaction with what one has. It places true wealth in the contentment of someone who knows how to be satisfied with their condition, well beyond the mere accumulation of possessions. This wisdom, close to ancient philosophical traditions distinguishing having from being, invites one to measure fortune by the inner peace it brings, a man laden with goods yet forever dissatisfied being, by this logic, poorer than a modest man content with his lot. The proverb is said in a moral, reflective register, often as a consolation offered to someone of little fortune, or as a warning against the endless race for material accumulation, which never on its own brings peace of mind.