Silence is an ornament for women.
SophoclesRead
Whoe'er imagines prudence all his own, Or deems that he hath powers to speak and judge Such as none other hath, when they are known, They are found shallow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True wisdom involves recognizing the limitations of one's own knowledge and judgment.
In this quote, Sophocles suggests that those who believe they possess unique wisdom or authority in judgment are often mistaken. It highlights the importance of humility and the understanding that one's perspective is limited, pointing to the shallowness of overconfidence in one's own insight without acknowledging the value of others' contributions and viewpoints.
Themes
WisdomHumilityKnowledgeJudgmentPrudent
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of collaborative decision-making in leadership.
More from Sophocles
All quotes βNone love the messenger who brings bad news.
SophoclesRead
All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong, and repairs the evil. The only crime is pride.
SophoclesRead
Not even Ares battles against necessity.
SophoclesRead
You clearly hate to yield, but you will regret it when your anger has passed. Such natures are justly the hardest for themselves to bear.
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There is nothing more hateful than bad advice.
SophoclesRead
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The one knowing what is profitable, and not the man knowing many things, is wise.
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My wisdom is as spurned as chaos. What is my nothingness, compared to the amazement that awaits you?
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The fool, with all his other faults, has this also, he is always getting ready to live.
EpicurusRead