Men Gods Quote by Epictetus
““REST.—If a man should be able to assent to this doctrine as he ought, that we are all sprung from God in an especial manner, and that God is the father both of men and of gods, I suppose that he would never have any ignoble or mean thoughts about himself. But if Cæsar (the emperor) should adopt you, no one could endure your arrogance; and if you know that you are the son of Zeus, will you not be elated?””
About This Quote
Source Text: Discourses of Epictetus, 2nd century CE, Book 2, Chapter 5
If we accept divine origin and superiority, we avoid arrogance; but claiming divine status leads to pride.
In simple terms: Believing we’re special can cause pride; humility keeps us grounded.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility, avoid inflated self‑importance.
Themes
humility
divine nature
pride
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- personal development
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
self‑perception
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs inflate your ego?
- How can you practice humility daily?
A Different Perspective
Even humility can be challenged by societal pressures to assert superiority.
![“[H]eavenly personality, or the perpetuation of human personality in heaven is nothing else than personality released from all earthly encumbrances and limitations[.] [H]ere we are men, there gods[.]” quote by Ludwig Feuerbach](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3a6/ludwig-feuerbach-3406_clinging-to-self_h-eavenly-personality-or-the-perpetuatio_340334.jpg)
