"Auri sacra fames" is a Latin phrase that can be translated as "the accursed hunger for gold" or "the sacred hunger for gold." It is derived from the epic poem, the Aeneid, written by the Roman poet Virgil.
The phrase encapsulates the insatiable greed and obsession that humans can have for accumulating wealth. It refers specifically to the intense desire for gold, which has been revered and sought after throughout history for its value and beauty.
The use of the word "sacra," meaning sacred, in the phrase suggests that this hunger for gold can become a destructive force, akin to a religious fervor. It implies that individuals may go to extreme lengths, morally and ethically, in their pursuit of wealth, giving it an almost sanctified status in their lives.
The term also carries a negative connotation, emphasizing the negative effects that the lust for gold can have on individuals and society as a whole. It suggests that this unquenchable desire for wealth can lead to corruption, self-interest, and the erosion of moral values.
Overall, "Auri sacra fames" serves as a cautionary reminder of the pitfalls associated with an all-consuming hunger for material riches, highlighting the potential harm it can inflict on both individuals and the wider community.
