Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
EpictetusRead
There is nothing good or evil save in the will.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our intentions and choices shape our understanding of good and evil.
This quote by Epictetus emphasizes that morality is not inherent in actions or events themselves, but rather is determined by our will and intentions. It suggests that good and evil are subjective and are defined by our choices, reinforcing the importance of personal responsibility and mindset in moral judgments.
Themes
WillMoralityGoodEvilIntentions
In practice
Example use cases
In a philosophical discussion about ethics, one might illustrate their point by referring to this quote.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βLearn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
EpictetusRead
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
EpictetusRead
Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
EpictetusRead
The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
EpictetusRead
Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
EpictetusRead
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I've always wanted to sail to the South Seas, but I can't afford it. What these men can't afford is not to go. They are enmeshed in the cancerous discipline of security. And in the worship of security we fling our lives beneath the wheels of routine β and before we know it our lives are gone.
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