Discipline Quote by Tertullian
“For what war should we not be fit and eager, even though unequal in numbers, we who are so willing to be slaughtered-if, according to that discipline of ours, it was not more lawful to be slain than to slay?”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: De Anima, 2nd century
Even when outnumbered, we should not eagerly seek war unless it is just, as fighting may be as unlawful as being killed.
In simple terms: Avoid eager war unless just, even if outnumbered.
Key Takeaway
Question the morality of conflict.
Themes
ethics
war
justice
Mood
serious
contemplative
Type
philosophical
religious
When to use this quote
- military decisions
- political policy
- social movements
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a war just?
- How do we balance courage with moral restraint?
A Different Perspective
War can be morally complex; numbers don’t dictate righteousness.
