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Look well at this, and speak no towering word yourself…

“Look well at this, and speak no towering word yourself against the gods, nor walk too grandly because your hand is weightier than another’s, 130 or your great wealth deeper founded. One short day inclines the balance of all human things to sink or rise again. Know that the gods love men of steady…” quote by Sophocles
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““Look well at this, and speak no towering word             yourself against the gods, nor walk too grandly             because your hand is weightier than another’s, 130      or your great wealth deeper founded. One short day             inclines the balance of all human things             to sink or rise again. Know that the gods             love men of steady sense and hate the wicked.””

Sophocles

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 hubris, urging humility and steady judgment, reminding that fate can shift quickly and the divine favor the modest.

In simple terms: Avoid arrogance; stay humble and consistent.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and steady sense.

Themes

humility hubris fate divine justice moderation

Mood

reflective serious

Type

cautionary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • personal ambition
  • ethical decision making
  • social influence

Key Concepts

Greek tragedy moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you check your pride before acting?
  • What steadiness can you practice in daily choices?
A Different Perspective

Even modest actions can provoke divine or societal backlash.

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