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
Friends show their love in times of trouble, not in happiness.
Friendships begin with liking or gratitude- roots that can be pulled up.
A good friend will always stab you in the front.
In meeting again after a separation, acquaintances ask after our outward life, friends after our inner life.
Make no man your friend before inquiring how he has used his former friends; for you must expect him to treat you as he has treated them. Be slow to give your friendship, but when you have given it, strive to make it lasting; for it is as reprehensible to make many changes in one's associates as to have no friends at all. Neither test your friends to your own injury nor be willing to forego a test of your companions.
Nothing is there more friendly to a man than a friend in need.