Anger, if not restrained, is frequently more hurtful to us than the injury that provokes it.
Seneca The YoungerRead
When some state or other offered Alexander a part of its territory and half of all its property he told them that 'he hadn't come to Asia with the intention of accepting whatever they cared to give him, but of letting them keep whatever he chose to leave them.' Philosophy, likewise, tells all other occupations: 'It's not my intention to accept whatever time is leftover from you; you shall have, instead, what I reject.' Give your whole mind to her.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of dedicating oneself fully to philosophy, rather than accepting it as an afterthought.
Seneca highlights that true philosophical pursuit should not be a mere afterthought, similar to how Alexander the Great approached conquests; rather, one should fully commit to philosophy, prioritizing it above all else. The message advocates for the rejection of half-hearted engagements and encourages individuals to devote their entire focus and intellect to philosophical thought, framing it as an essential part of life rather than a secondary concern.
Themes
PhilosophyDedicationCommitmentLifeIntellect
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about following one's passion.
More from Seneca The Younger
All quotes →No tree becomes rooted and sturdy unless many a wind assails it. For by its very tossing it tightens its grip and plants its roots more securely; the fragile trees are those that have grown in a sunny valley.
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Slavery takes hold of few, but many take hold of slavery.
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To be able to endure odium is the first art to be learned by those who aspire to power.
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Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness.
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Loyalty is the holiest good in the human heart.
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