Frame of mind Quote by Epictetus
![“why act the part of a Jew when you’re Greek? [ 20] Don’t you know why it is that a person is called a Jew, Syrian, or Egyptian? And when we see someone hesitating between two creeds, we’re accustomed to say, ‘He is no Jew, but is merely acting the part.’ But when he assumes the frame of mind of…” quote by Epictetus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e4c/epictetus-413_frame-of-mind_why-act-the-part-of-a-jew-when-you-re-gr_206052.jpg)
““why act the part of a Jew when you’re Greek? [ 20] Don’t you know why it is that a person is called a Jew, Syrian, or Egyptian? And when we see someone hesitating between two creeds, we’re accustomed to say, ‘He is no Jew, but is merely acting the part.’ But when he assumes the frame of mind of one who has been baptized * and has made his choice, then he really is a Jew, and is called by that name.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Discourses, c. 108 AD
Identity is defined by chosen beliefs, not birth; true identity comes from conscious commitment.
In simple terms: Chosen belief defines identity.
Key Takeaway
Choose beliefs deliberately.
Themes
philosophy
identity
choice
religion
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
- cultural integration
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
Stoicism
self‑definition
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs define you?
- Can identity change through choice?
A Different Perspective
May overlook cultural heritage’s influence.
![“I simply constructed a project to try to snap Kurt [Cobain] out of a frame of mind. I sent him a plane ticket and a driver, and he tacked the plane ticket to the wall in the bedroom and the driver sat outside the house for 10 hours. Kurt wouldn't come out and wouldn't answer the phone.” quote by Michael Stipe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/208/michael-stipe-6714_answers_i-simply-constructed-a-project-to-try-to_117192.jpg)
