Chapter Fifteen
15:1
Book Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Book Description: In this book, the whole of Epictetus' philosophy is condensed into 52 key lessons by his student Arrian. The handbook was meant to be kept 'on-hand' by ancient students of Stoicism. It is a guide to be referenced when navigating the trials of life. This makes it both a vivid distillation of the most important Stoic ideas and a tool for the practical application of the philosophy.
Chapter Subtitle: Remember that you must behave in life as at a dinner party.
15. Remember that you must behave in life as at a dinner party.
Is anything brought around to you?
Put out your hand and take your share with moderation.
Does it pass by you?
Don't stop it.
Is it not yet come?
Don't stretch your desire towards it, but wait till it reaches you.
Do this with regard to children, to a wife, to public posts, to riches, and you will eventually be a worthy partner of the feasts of the gods.
And if you don't even take the things which are set before you, but are able even to reject them, then you will not only be a partner at the feasts of the gods, but also of their empire.
For, by doing this, Diogenes, Heraclitus and others like them, deservedly became, and were called, divine.
Book: Handbook
Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Author: Epictetus
Chapter: Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Subtitle: Remember that you must behave in life as at a dinner party.
Location: Chapter 15, Section 1
Content:
15. Remember that you must behave in life as at a dinner party.
Is anything brought around to you?
Put out your hand and take your share with moderation.
Does it pass by you?
Don't stop it.
Is it not yet come?
Don't stretch your desire towards it, but wait till it reaches you.
Do this with regard to children, to a wife, to public posts, to riches, and you will eventually be a worthy partner of the feasts of the gods.
And if you don't even take the things which are set before you, but are able even to reject them, then you will not only be a partner at the feasts of the gods, but also of their empire.
For, by doing this, Diogenes, Heraclitus and others like them, deservedly became, and were called, divine.