So erst the Sage [Pythagoras] with scientific truth In…
![“So erst the Sage [Pythagoras] with scientific truth In Grecian temples taught the attentive youth; With ceaseless change how restless atoms pass From life to life, a transmigrating mass; How the same organs, which to-day compose The poisonous henbane, or the fragrant rose, May with to-morrow's sun…” quote by Erasmus Darwin](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/385/erasmus-darwin-17186_atoms_so-erst-the-sage-pythagoras-with-scienti_3173964.jpg)
“So erst the Sage [Pythagoras] with scientific truth In Grecian temples taught the attentive youth; With ceaseless change how restless atoms pass From life to life, a transmigrating mass; How the same organs, which to-day compose The poisonous henbane, or the fragrant rose, May with to-morrow's sun new forms compile, Frown in the Hero, in the Beauty smile. Whence drew the enlighten'd Sage the moral plan, That man should ever be the friend of man; Should eye with tenderness all living forms, His brother-emmets, and his sister-worms.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poem suggests that all living things are interconnected and constantly transforming, urging compassion toward all forms of life.
In simple terms: All life changes and is linked; we should be kind to everything.
Key Takeaway
Practice universal compassion.
Themes
interconnectedness
change
compassion
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
poetic
ethical
When to use this quote
- environmental stewardship
- animal rights
- personal growth
- education
Key Concepts
biology
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you extend kindness beyond humans?
- What does “friend of man” mean in modern society?
A Different Perspective
Human empathy may be limited by speciesism and cultural biases.