Handbook - Chapter Thirty
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: Duties are universally measured by relations.
Chapter: 30 of 53
Sections: 1
Author: Epictetus
30. Duties are universally measured by relations.
Is anyone a father?
If so, it is implied that the children should take care of him, submit to him in everything, patiently listen to his reproaches, his correction.
But he is a bad father.
Is you naturally entitled, then, to a good father?
No, only to a father.
Is a brother unjust?
Well, keep your own situation towards him.
Consider not what he does, but what you are to do to keep your own faculty of choice in a state conformable to nature.
For another will not hurt you unless you please.
You will then be hurt when you think you are hurt.
In this manner, therefore, you will find, from the idea of a neighbor, a citizen, a general, the corresponding duties if you accustom yourself to contemplate the several relations.
Book: Handbook
Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Author: Epictetus
Chapter: Chapter Thirty (Chapter 30 of 53)
Sections in this chapter:
Section 1:
30. Duties are universally measured by relations.
Is anyone a father?
If so, it is implied that the children should take care of him, submit to him in everything, patiently listen to his reproaches, his correction.
But he is a bad father.
Is you naturally entitled, then, to a good father?
No, only to a father.
Is a brother unjust?
Well, keep your own situation towards him.
Consider not what he does, but what you are to do to keep your own faculty of choice in a state conformable to nature.
For another will not hurt you unless you please.
You will then be hurt when you think you are hurt.
In this manner, therefore, you will find, from the idea of a neighbor, a citizen, a general, the corresponding duties if you accustom yourself to contemplate the several relations.