“Charity degrades those who receive it and hardens those who dispense it”

Simplified Meaning:

Giving money or help to people in need can sometimes make things worse for everyone involved. When people receive charity, they might feel embarrassed or less capable because they couldn't manage on their own. It can hurt their pride and self-esteem. On the other hand, people who give charity might start to see themselves as superior or more important. They might become less empathetic and develop a sense of pride or judgment towards those they are helping. For example, if someone constantly gives money to a friend who is struggling, the friend might start to rely too much on this help and feel ashamed that they can't stand on their own feet. At the same time, the person giving the money might feel powerful or begin to look down on their friend, thinking they are better than the person they are helping. To avoid these issues, it's better to help others in ways that empower them rather than just giving handouts. This could mean teaching them new skills, helping them find jobs, or providing support in a way that builds their confidence. This way, both the giver and receiver can grow positively from the experience without feeling diminished or overly proud.