Never forget, Alexandros, that this flesh, this body, does…
““Never forget, Alexandros, that this flesh, this body, does not belong to us. Thank God it doesn’t. If I thought this stuff was mine, I could not advance a pace into the face of the enemy. But it is not ours, my friend. It belongs to the gods and to our children, our fathers and mothers and those of Lakedaemon a hundred, a thousand years yet unborn. It belongs to the city which gives us all we have and demands no less in requital.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A reminder that the body is a vessel belonging to the community and higher purpose, not personal ownership.
In simple terms: Our bodies serve the community, not ourselves.
Key Takeaway
Act for the greater good, not selfish gain.
Themes
service
collectivism
purpose
military ethos
Mood
inspirational
serious
Type
motivational
ethical
When to use this quote
- military service
- public service
- team sports
- community projects
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
civic duty
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do you feel toward your community?
- How do you balance personal needs with collective duty?
A Different Perspective
May ignore personal well‑being.