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For every nation that lives peaceably, there will be many others to grow hard and push their arrogance to extremes; the gods attend to these things slowly. But they attend to those who put off God and turn to madness.
Sophocles
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Nations that seek peace may face others who become overbearing and arrogant, as divine balance eventually addresses these behaviors.

This quote reflects on the dynamics between peaceful nations and those that adopt aggressive or arrogant postures. It suggests that while tranquility may prevail in certain areas, there will always be nations that exploit their power and exhibit hubris. Over time, divine forces or cosmic justice will address these imbalances, particularly when those in power turn away from moral considerations and towards recklessness or madness.

Themes

PeaceArroganceNationsDivine JusticeMadness

In practice

Example use cases

In a political speech advocating for peace among nations.

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Quote by Sophocles | QuoteProject