To give and keep there is need of wit.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

Giving generously while retaining what is needed calls for judgement. Consider both the recipient’s need and your own commitments rather than treating generosity as either giving everything or refusing everything.

What the words are saying

The saying places giving and keeping together as choices that need wit, meaning practical understanding in this interpretation. It recognises a tension between helping another person and retaining enough for responsibilities already held. A useful response looks at what is available, what the offer would cost and whether it can actually serve the intended purpose. The proverb does not specify an amount or make generosity a contest in self-denial. Nor does keeping something prove selfishness. Clear limits can make an offer reliable, while an impressive promise beyond one’s means may leave both parties worse off.

Everyday example

A volunteer offers one manageable session of help and explains that limit clearly, instead of promising several sessions they cannot realistically attend.

When to use it

Use it when an offer of help needs to fit real resources and commitments.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.