Just as an individual of pre-eminent worth transforms democracy into a monarchy of the best man, even so the rule of one man, if in all things it has an eye to the common welfare, is democracy.
I delight to lodge in such temples as are not regularly kept closed. None of the gods reject me; they make me partner of their roof.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests an appreciation for places that welcome all, where divinity and humanity coexist freely.
In this quote, Apollonius of Tyana expresses a deep appreciation for spaces that are open and inviting, representing a sanctuary for all. The 'temples' symbolize places that embody spiritual and divine qualities, but importantly, they are not restricted to select individuals; rather, they embrace all, allowing for a shared communion with the divine. This idea reflects a broader philosophical belief in inclusivity and the interconnectedness of humanity with the divine.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on unity, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of open, welcoming spaces for all.
More from Apollonius Of Tyana
All quotes βA man must fortify himself and understand that a wise man who yields to laziness or anger or passion or love of drink, or who commits any other action prompted by impulse and inopportune, will probably find his fault condoned; but if he stoops to greed, he will not be pardoned, but render himself odious as a combination of all vices at once.
Never may a man prone to believe scandal be a despot or a popular leader! Under his guidance, democracy itself will be despotism.
If any man has left us for fear of Nero, I shall not account him a coward; but I shall hail as a philosopher any man who has been superior to this fear, and I shall teach him all I know.
If you have problems of conduct that are difficult and hard to settle, I will furnish you with solutions, for I not only know matters of practice and duty, but I even know them beforehand.
O ye gods, grant unto me to have little and to want nothing.
Similar quotes
Why should death make a man truthful, or even clever? The dead are likely dull fellows, full of tedious complaints - the ground's too cold, my gravestone should be larger, why does he get more worms than I do.
As long as there are rich people in the world, they will be desirous of distinguishing themselves from the poor.
For everyone nowadays knows, absolutely is CERTAIN, that nothing bad will ever happen to ME. Others die, I go on. There are no consequences and no responsibilities. Except that there ARE. But let's not talk about them, eh? By the time the consequences catch up to you, it's too late, isn't it, Montag?
What we call our data are really our own constructions of other peopleβs constructions of what they and their compatriots are up to.
The salvation of this human world lies nowhere else than in the human heart, in the human power to reflect, in human meekness and human responsibility.
I greet you from Smyrna together with the Churches of God present here with me. They comfort me in every way, both in body and soul. My chains, which I carry about on me for Jesus Christ, begging that I may happily make my way to God, exhort you: persevere in your concord and in you community prayers.