The Eternal Question: Can Money Buy Happiness?
We have all heard it since childhood that money cannot buy happiness. Yet most of us spend most parts of our lives chasing it anyway, convincing ourselves that the next raise, the bigger house, or the newer phone will finally make us feel complete. And honestly, for a little while, it does.
But what happens when the feeling fades? We are right back where we started, wanting a little more. It is one of the oldest puzzles of human life: if money matters so little to our joy, why does the lack of it cause so much misery, and why does having it never feel enough?
The Spiritual Perspective
Spiritual guide Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has a simple answer to this riddle. His quote sheds light on the true source of happiness.
Quote of the Day
"Money cannot buy you happiness. It’s knowledge or wisdom that brings you happiness." — Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
What Does the Quote Mean?
Gurudev’s wise words draw a line between two kinds of wealth. One is material, where money, possessions, and status have a role to play. The other is inner, meaning what we understand about ourselves and the world around us. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s point is that lasting happiness grows from the second kind, not the first.
Money can buy comfort, security, and pleasure, but these tend to be temporary. The thrill of a new purchase fades after a certain span of time, which psychologists call the "hedonic treadmill." According to this pattern, we adapt to each gain and soon want more. However, knowledge and wisdom work differently. Knowledge helps us understand life better, and wisdom helps us live it well. A wise person can remain stable in hard times and find meaning in ordinary moments.
The quote does not tell us that money is unimportant or that being poor is somehow noble. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has himself spoken about honouring wealth rather than rejecting it. The real message is about priority: it is better to treat money as a tool, not the destination.
Relevance in Today's World
We live in an age that quietly measures a person's worth by their income, job title, or stature in society. But that is exactly where wisdom comes in. Money can solve the problems money creates. It cannot answer the harder questions, like how to handle loss, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to find purpose. Those answers come from understanding and inner growth.
About the Author
The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.
