“In philosophy, rather than showing lots of complicated examples, seek a few clear ones.”
“Live like a doctor, and constantly treat yourself with the medicine of reason.”
“Trying to hurt every enemy you meet? This is the mark of a cold-hearted and ignorant person.”
“Philosophy’s primary purpose is to reveal to us our shortcomings, so we can overcome them.”
“Let philosophy be like nutritious food or physical exercise, staying with us and always guarding our judgments.”
“Seek what is NOT simple and obvious by using the simple and obvious.”
“To forgive those who wrong us is the proof of a benevolent way of life.”
“Don’t expect to encourage good deeds in other people if they are aware of your own misdeeds.”
“Willingly accept the inevitable, and you will lead a life in harmony with the universe.”
“Just as a stone falls if you throw it up, good people will continue being good even if you try to repel them.”
“We gain every good by experiencing the toil in our lives.”
“Train yourself to strive for giving, rather than receiving.”
“The soul is trained for courage when we show patience under hardships.”
“Don’t just say that some things should not be feared, but actually show courage in the face of them.”
“It’s better to actually be self-controlled than to tell others how they ought to live their lives.”
“Every child should be trained to not be disheartened in the face of misfortune, and to endure hardships.”
“To relax your mind . . . is to lose it.”
“Reflect on how many things have happened that you didn’t want, and yet they turned out for the best.”
“Have a firm conviction that hardships, and even death, are not evils.”
“Most people who criticize tyrants have the same inclinations, they just lack the chance to act on them.”
“You’ll earn the respect of all men if you begin by earning the respect of yourself.”
“It’s not possible to live well today . . . unless you treat it as your last day.”
About Gaius Musonius Rufus
Gaius Musonius Rufus was a Roman philosopher and teacher who lived during the first century AD. He is considered one of the most important Stoic philosophers of his time, and his teachings had a profound impact on Roman society.
Born in Volsinii, Italy, Rufus came from a wealthy and influential family. He studied philosophy under various teachers, and eventually himself became a teacher of the famous Stoic philosopher Epictetus. In AD 60, he was exiled to Gyaros, an island off the coast of Greece, for his teachings.
Despite his exile, Rufus continued to teach and write about Stoicism. He believed in living a simple, virtuous life, and his teachings focused on the importance of self-control, virtue, and wisdom. He also believed in the equality of all people, regardless of their social status or gender.
Rufus was also a strong advocate for women’s education and rights. He believed that women should be educated and allowed to participate in public life, and he taught both male and female students.
During his time in Gyaros, Rufus wrote several influential works, including “On the Good Man,” “On the Cynic,” and “On the Stoic Life.” These works were widely read and had a significant impact on Roman society.
After his exile, Rufus returned to Rome and continued to teach and write. He was eventually arrested and sentenced to death by the Roman authorities, but he was later pardoned and released. He continued to teach until his death in AD 101.
Rufus’s teachings continue to be studied and admired by philosophers and scholars today. His emphasis on virtue and self-control remains relevant and inspiring, and his advocacy for women’s rights was truly ahead of his time. His life and teachings continue to inspire and influence people around the world.