The sure mark of one born with noble qualities is being born without envy.

This quote suggests that those born with noble qualities, or those who are inherently good and virtuous, are also born without envy. Envy is a negative emotion that involves desiring what someone else has, whether it’s their possessions, their success, or their qualities. According to Rochefoucauld, those who are truly noble do not have this emotion. They are content with what they have and do not covet what belongs to others.

This perspective can be seen as a commentary on the nature of nobility and virtue. It suggests that true nobility is not about wealth, power, or status, but about inner qualities like contentment, generosity, and lack of envy. It also implies that these qualities are inherent, not acquired. This is an interesting viewpoint, as it challenges the common belief that virtues can be developed or learned.

In today’s world, this idea can be applied in various ways. In the context of personal development, it suggests that one way to cultivate nobility is to eliminate envy. This could involve practicing gratitude for what one has, fostering a sense of abundance rather than scarcity, and learning to be happy for others’ success rather than envying it.

In a broader societal context, this quote can be a critique of consumerism and the constant desire for more, which often leads to envy. It suggests that a more noble way of living involves being content with what one has and not constantly striving for more.

In conclusion, this quote provides a thought-provoking perspective on nobility and envy. It invites us to reflect on our own attitudes and emotions, and to strive for a state of contentment and lack of envy, which Rochefoucauld sees as the mark of true nobility.