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Invite your friend to a feast, but leave your enemy alone…

“Invite your friend to a feast, but leave your enemy alone; and especially invite the one who lives near you.” quote by Hesiod
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“Invite your friend to a feast, but leave your enemy alone; and especially invite the one who lives near you.”

Hesiod

About This Quote

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

Encourage hospitality to friends and neighbors while keeping distance from enemies, especially those nearby.

In simple terms: Be friendly to allies, cautious with foes.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate community bonds, avoid unnecessary conflict.

Themes

hospitality social dynamics strategic relationships

Mood

thoughtful pragmatic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • neighborhood events
  • conflict avoidance
  • neighborly support

Key Concepts

Greek ethics social reciprocity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance openness with caution?
  • When is it safe to trust a neighbor?
A Different Perspective

May overlook broader diplomatic nuances.

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