- English translation
If I have never needed to ask someone for anything, neither that person nor their generosity matters to me.
- Literal wording
The one whose basket my hand has not reached into—I care neither about him nor about his generosity.
- Meaning and lesson
The speaker rejects a would-be benefactor’s self-importance: because the speaker has never needed to reach into that person’s basket or provisions, that person cannot claim credit, gratitude, or superiority for generosity.
It may also express indifference toward the generosity of someone who does not care for or love the speaker. In that sense, material generosity does not outweigh absent affection, and the saying dismisses any status claimed through it.
- When it is used
Used in a firm, often dismissive reply when someone boasts of being helpful or expects credit for generosity that has not benefited the speaker. It suits disputes about dependence, favors, and personal dignity, but can sound confrontational when directed at a particular person.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: If I have never needed to ask someone for anything, neither that person nor their generosity matters to me.