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That man is best who sees the truth himself. Good too is he who listens to wise counsel. But who is neither wise himself nor willing to ponder wisdom is not worth a straw.
Hesiod
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True wisdom comes from self-discovery and valuing the counsel of others.

Hesiod emphasizes the importance of personal insight and the ability to recognize truth independently. While it's valuable to seek and heed wise advice, those who lack wisdom and disdain learning from others are ultimately considered to have little worth.

Themes

WisdomTruthKnowledgeCounselSelf-Discovery

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a motivational speech focusing on the importance of self-awareness.

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Justice prevails over transgression when she comes to the end of the race.
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He is senseless who would match himself against a stronger man; for he is deprived of victory and adds suffering to disgrace.
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It is a hard thing for a man to be righteous, if the unrighteous man is to have the greater right.
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Work is not a shame. Laziness is a shame.
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It will not always be summer: build barns.
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It is not possible either to trick or escape the mind of Zeus.
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