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Contemplate Quote by Epictetus

“You journey to Olympia to see the work of Phidias; and each of you holds it a misfortune not to have beheld these things before you die. Whereas when there is no need even to take a journey, but you are on the spot, with the works before you, have you no care to contemplate and study these? Will…” quote by Epictetus
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““You journey to Olympia to see the work of Phidias; and each of you holds it a misfortune not to have beheld these things before you die. Whereas when there is no need even to take a journey, but you are on the spot, with the works before you, have you no care to contemplate and study these? Will you not then perceive either who you are or unto what end you were born: or for what purpose the power of contemplation has been bestowed on you? "Well, but in life there are some things disagreeable and hard to bear." And are there none at Olympia? Are you not scorched by the heat? Are you not cramped for room? Have you not to bathe with discomfort? Are you not drenched when it rains? Have you not to endure the clamor and shouting and such annoyances as these? Well, I suppose you set all this over against the splendour of the spectacle and bear it patiently. What then? have you not received greatness of heart, received courage, received fortitude? What care I, if I am great of heart, for aught that can come to pass? What shall cast me down or disturb me? What shall seem painful? Shall I not use the power to the end for which I received it, instead of moaning and wailing over what comes to pass?””

Epictetus

About This Quote

Source Discourses: On Contemplation and Adversity, 2nd century AD

Contemplation of art and hardship reveals purpose; enduring discomfort builds greatness and inner strength.

In simple terms: Endure hardship to grow.

Key Takeaway

Embrace challenges as paths to virtue.

Themes

philosophy contemplation adversity

Mood

reflective serene

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • museum visits
  • education
  • personal reflection
  • stressful situations

Key Concepts

stoicism purpose inner strength

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance contemplation with enjoyment?
  • What comforts can you still appreciate?
A Different Perspective

Too much focus on hardship can neglect joy.

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