Greek-language Quote by Hermes Trismegistus
““But this discourse, expressed in our paternal language, keeps clear the meaning of its words. The very quality of speech and of the Egyptian words have in themselves the energy of the object they speak of. Therefore, my king, in so far as you have the power (who are all powerful), keep the discourse uninterpreted, lest mysteries of such greatness come to the Greeks, lest the extravagant, flaccid and (as it were) dandified Greek idiom extinguish something stately and concise, the energetic idiom of usage. For the Greeks have empty speeches, O king, that are energetic only in what they demonstrate, and this is the philosophy of the Greeks, an inane foolosophy of speeches. We, by contrast, use not speeches but sounds that are full of action. (Chapter XVI)””
About This Quote
Source Text: Corpus Hermeticum, Chapter XVI, 2nd–3rd century CE
Greek rhetorical style is empty; true meaning lies in purposeful action, not ornate speech
In simple terms: Words can be hollow; action conveys real energy
Key Takeaway
Prioritize decisive action over flashy language
Themes
philosophy
communication
culture
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- teaching
- leadership
- translation work
Key Concepts
rhetoric
semantic energy
ancient Greek thought
Questions to Reflect On
- Can action alone convey complex ideas?
- When is eloquent speech necessary?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on action may ignore nuance and context
