A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men) that wise men only should be able to commend him.
Interpretation
A truly wise person communicates in a way that is accessible to everyone, yet only the truly wise can fully appreciate their insights.
In this quote, Thomas Hobbes expresses the idea that while wisdom should be presented in clear and understandable language, the depth of that wisdom should be such that it can be recognized and appreciated only by those who have the capacity for deeper thought. It emphasizes the balance between accessibility and the elite understanding of profound insights.
In practice
During a lecture on philosophy, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of communicating profound thoughts simply.
Baptism is the sacrament of allegiance of them that are to be received into the Kingdom of God, that is to say, into Eternal life, that is to say, to Remission of Sin. For as Eternal life was lost by the committing, so it is recovered by the remitting of men's sins.
Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues.
For it is not the shape, but their use, that makes them angels.
For to accuse requires less eloquence, such is man's nature, than to excuse; and condemnation, than absolution, more resembles justice.
Scientia potentia est, sed parva; quia scientia egregia rara est, nec proinde apparens nisi paucissimis, et in paucis rebus. Scientiae enim ea natura est, ut esse intelligi non possit, nisi ab illis qui sunt scientia praediti.
The end of knowledge is power ... the scope of all speculation is the performing of some action or thing to be done.
Among a man's many good possessions, A good command of speech has no equal. Prosperity and ruin issue from the power of the tongue. Therefore, guard yourself against thoughtless speech.
In a 'wheat and tares' world, how unusually blessed faithful members are to have the precious and constant gift of the Holy Ghost with reminders of what is right and of the covenants we have made. 'For behold, ... the Holy Ghost ... will show unto you all things what ye should do.' (2 Ne. 32:5.) Whatever the decibels of decadence, these need not overwhelm the still, small voice! Some of the best sermons we will ever hear will be thus prompted from the pulpit of memoryβto an audience of one!
The sheep are happier of themselves, than under the care of wolves.
When we disclaim praise, it is only showing our desire to be praised a second time.
Those who know don't tell and those who tell don't know.
Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be known. Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life.
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