The theory that the universe unfolds according to the predetermined, and benevolent, plan of god.
Providence is one reason why the ethical goal of Stoicism, happiness, is also described as 'living in accordance with nature'.
The Stoics believed that the universe was progressing towards a natural and good end.
So, we will be happy if we align ourselves with that plan, and unhappy if we go up against it.
We are being dragged along, tied to the cart of fate, but providence means the cart is headed in the best direction possible.
So we not only suffer when we fight against fate, but we also are trying to change things for the worse.
Our job instead is to understand the role we have to play in God's plan.
Greek: Pronoia
πρόνοια.
Book: Essential Stoic Concepts
Subtitle: A Stoic glossary
Author: Stoa
Chapter: Providence
Location: Chapter 25, Section 2
Content:
The theory that the universe unfolds according to the predetermined, and benevolent, plan of god.
Providence is one reason why the ethical goal of Stoicism, happiness, is also described as 'living in accordance with nature'.
The Stoics believed that the universe was progressing towards a natural and good end.
So, we will be happy if we align ourselves with that plan, and unhappy if we go up against it.
We are being dragged along, tied to the cart of fate, but providence means the cart is headed in the best direction possible.
So we not only suffer when we fight against fate, but we also are trying to change things for the worse.
Our job instead is to understand the role we have to play in God's plan.
Greek: Pronoia
πρόνοια.