Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?
A friend is one soul abiding in two bodies.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True friendship is characterized by a deep connection between two people who share a profound understanding of each other.
This quote by Diogenes highlights the essence of friendship as a unique bond where two individuals connect on such a deep level that they almost become one entity. It implies that genuine friendship transcends superficial interactions, allowing friends to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that creates a singular, unified soul, even while residing in separate bodies.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the power of bonds, one might say, 'As Diogenes said, A friend is one soul abiding in two bodies, illustrating the unity we share with those we care about.'
More from Diogenes
All quotes βThe art of being a slave is to rule one's master.
As a matter of self-preservation, a man needs good friends or ardent enemies, for the former instruct him and the latter take him to task.
I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.
We come into the world alone and we die alone. Why, in life, should we be any less alone?
All things are in common among friends.
Similar quotes
Everything is connected. Surfing is a solitary sport. But I can tell you that some of the most amazing things I've done surfing have come from being a part of a tribe.
Friendships begin with liking or gratitude- roots that can be pulled up.
Geese are friends to no one, they bad mouth everybody and everything. But they are companionable once you get used to their ingratitude and false accusations.
How delightful to find a friend in everyone.
In poverty and other misfortunes of life, true friends are a sure refuge.
Friendship, "the wine of life," should, like a well-stocked cellar, be continually renewed.