Endure Quote by Sallust
“It is not only spirits who punish the evil, the soul brings itself to judgment: and also it is not right for those who endure for ever to attain everything in a short time: and also, there is need of human virtue. If punishment followed instantly upon sin, men would act justly from fear and have no virtue.”
About This Quote
Source Historical work: Bellum Catilinae by Sallust, 42 BC
Justice is delayed; immediate punishment would eliminate moral growth and virtue.
In simple terms: Delayed justice fosters virtue.
Key Takeaway
Allow time for moral development.
Themes
justice
virtue
punishment
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
historical
essay
When to use this quote
- legal systems
- ethical education
- personal accountability
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Is punishment ever truly immediate?
- How does virtue develop without fear?
A Different Perspective
Immediate punishment may cause fear, not true justice.
![“The Romans assisted their allies and friends, and acquired friendships by giving rather than receiving kindness. [Lat., Sociis atque amicis auxilia portabant Romani, magisque dandis quam accipiundis beneficiis amicitias parabant.]” quote by Sallust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1da/sallust-4191_allies_the-romans-assisted-their-allies-and-fri_297234.jpg)
![“Enough words, little wisdom. [Lat., Satis eloquentiae sapientiae parum.]” quote by Sallust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/sallust-4191_enough_enough-words-little-wisdom-lat-satis-elo_465897.jpg)
