The Stoics say, "Retire within yourselves; it is there you…
“The Stoics say, "Retire within yourselves; it is there you will find your rest." And that is not true. Others say, "Go out of yourselves; seek happiness in amusement." And this is not true. Illness comes. Happiness is neither without us nor within us. It is in God, both without us and within us.”
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 argues that happiness is not found by retreating inward or by external distraction, but through a divine presence that transcends both interior and exterior realms.
In simple terms: Happiness lies beyond self and world.
Key Takeaway
Divine source of joy
Themes
spirituality
philosophy
inner peace
external distraction
theology
human condition
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
serene
Type
aphorism
philosophical statement
spiritual insight
When to use this quote
- seeking meaning in meditation
- pursuing pleasure through entertainment
- coping with illness
- searching for purpose
Key Concepts
stoicism
materialism
theism
human suffering
Practical Applications
- spiritual counseling
- philosophical education
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to find rest beyond self?
- How can divine presence shape our experience of happiness?