Covetousness brings nothing home.

The proverb presents covetousness as an unproductive desire: wanting possessions, especially what belongs to others, does not by itself bring any gain.

It contrasts the urge to acquire with the result of having nothing to show for it. The emphasis is on the futility of wanting more, rather than on the value of a particular possession.

Use it to caution someone whose attention is fixed on acquiring more, especially when that desire is taking the place of a practical way to achieve something.