No man knows better what good is than he that has an endured evil.

No one values goodness more deeply than a person who has endured evil. Suffering can sharpen awareness of safety, kindness, relief, and other forms of good.

Having known suffering can make later kindness, safety, and relief more keenly valued. The saying concerns the perspective gained from contrast; it does not claim that hardship is necessary for everyone to appreciate the good things in life.

Use it when reflecting on how someone who has endured adversity may especially value safety, kindness, or good fortune. It acknowledges experience without treating hardship as necessary for gratitude. Avoid directing it at someone still suffering, as it may sound dismissive of their pain.