Skip to content

O slavish man! will you not bear with your own brother…

“O slavish man! will you not bear with your own brother, who has God for his Father, as being a son from the same stock, and of the same high descent? But if you chance to be placed in some superior station, will you presently set yourself up for a tyrant?” quote by Epictetus
Download Open image
“O slavish man! will you not bear with your own brother, who has God for his Father, as being a son from the same stock, and of the same high descent? But if you chance to be placed in some superior station, will you presently set yourself up for a tyrant?”

Epictetus

About This Quote

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

One should not elevate oneself above others, especially when sharing a common divine heritage; power corrupts.

In simple terms: Treat others equally; avoid tyranny.

Key Takeaway

Practice humility and equality.

Themes

equality humility power morality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • family dynamics
  • political office

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies enforce equality?
  • What checks prevent power abuse?
A Different Perspective

Human nature often seeks dominance despite teachings.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Epictetus

Explore all 577 Epictetus quotes

More Bears quotes

Browse all 4,111 Bears quotes