The quote “A wolf eats sheep but now and then, ten Thousands are devour’d by Men” is a stark commentary on human behavior and morality. It juxtaposes the natural predatory behavior of wolves, who kill to survive, with the actions of humans, suggesting that humans often cause more harm than necessary, and on a much larger scale.

In the first part, “A wolf eats sheep”, Franklin refers to the natural order of things, where a wolf, as a predator, hunts and eats sheep to survive. It’s a simple necessity, not driven by malice or greed, but by the need to sustain life. The wolf doesn’t kill more than it needs, nor does it kill for the sake of killing.

The second part of the quote, “but now and then, ten Thousands are devour’d by Men”, presents a stark contrast. Here, Franklin points out that humans, unlike the wolf, often cause harm on a much larger scale – not out of necessity, but due to greed, ambition, or carelessness. The number “ten Thousands” is not meant to be taken literally; it’s an exaggeration to emphasize the scale of the harm that humans can cause.

Applying this quote to today’s world, it could be seen as a critique of various forms of human excess, such as overconsumption, environmental degradation, and the exploitation of others for personal gain. It’s a call for moderation, mindfulness, and respect for the natural balance of things.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to be conscious of the impact our actions have on others and the world around us. It encourages us to strive for balance, to take only what we need, and to avoid causing unnecessary harm. It’s about being mindful of our actions and their consequences, and making choices that are not only good for us, but also for the greater good.