This quote speaks to the dynamic nature of promises and commitments, and how they are intrinsically tied to the circumstances surrounding them. When Machiavelli says, “The promise given was a necessity of the past,” he is suggesting that promises are often made in response to a specific need or situation. They are born out of a particular context, and serve a purpose in that moment.

The second part of the quote, “the word broken is a necessity of the present,” implies that as circumstances change, so too does the relevance and feasibility of the original promise. Breaking a promise, in this perspective, is not necessarily an act of dishonesty or betrayal, but rather a response to the shifting realities of the present.

Applying this idea to today’s world, one might consider the realm of politics. Politicians often make promises during their campaigns, responding to the needs and desires of the electorate. However, once in office, they may find that fulfilling these promises is not feasible due to changing circumstances, new information, or unforeseen challenges. While breaking promises can lead to criticism and loss of public trust, from Machiavelli’s perspective, it could also be seen as a necessary adaptation to the present.

In terms of personal development, this quote might suggest the importance of flexibility and adaptability. While it’s important to honor our commitments, we should also recognize that change is a fundamental part of life. Sometimes, the best course of action may involve revising or letting go of past promises in order to better respond to the current situation. This doesn’t mean we should make promises lightly, but rather that we should be willing to reassess our commitments in light of new circumstances.