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Carved on the temple [at Delphi] were the exhortations…

“Carved on the temple [at Delphi] were the exhortations "Know yourself" and "Nothing too much," mottoes with a similar meaning: You are only human, so don't try more than you are able (or you will pay the price). A recurring theme in Greek myth is the man or woman who loses sight of human…” quote by Barry B. Powell
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““Carved on the temple [at Delphi] were the exhortations "Know yourself" and "Nothing too much," mottoes with a similar meaning: You are only human, so don't try more than you are able (or you will pay the price). A recurring theme in Greek myth is the man or woman who loses sight of human limitations and acts arrogantly and with violence, as if immortal. And pays a terrible price.””

Barry B. Powell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote warns against overreaching beyond human limits, urging humility and self‑knowledge to avoid disastrous consequences.

In simple terms: Know your limits to avoid ruin.

Key Takeaway

Respect your limits.

Themes

humility self‑knowledge hubris

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision‑making
  • leadership
  • risk assessment
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

Greek mythology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits do you ignore?
  • How can humility guide your actions?
A Different Perspective

Even with self‑knowledge, ambition can blind us.

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