8.
Why, then, do you frame for me such games as these?
It is no occasion for jest; you are retained as counsel for unhappy mankind.
You have promised to help those in peril by sea, those in captivity, the sick and the needy, and those whose heads are under the poised axe.
Whither are you straying?
What are you doing?
This friend, in whose company you are jesting, is in fear.
Help him, and take the noose from about his neck.
Men are stretching out imploring hands to you on all sides; lives ruined and in danger of ruin are begging for some assistance; men’s hopes, men’s resources, depend upon you.
They ask that you deliver them from all their restlessness, that you reveal to them, scattered and wandering as they are, the clear light of truth.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On quibbling as unworthy of the philosopher
Location: Chapter 48, Section 8
Content:
8.
Why, then, do you frame for me such games as these?
It is no occasion for jest; you are retained as counsel for unhappy mankind.
You have promised to help those in peril by sea, those in captivity, the sick and the needy, and those whose heads are under the poised axe.
Whither are you straying?
What are you doing?
This friend, in whose company you are jesting, is in fear.
Help him, and take the noose from about his neck.
Men are stretching out imploring hands to you on all sides; lives ruined and in danger of ruin are begging for some assistance; men’s hopes, men’s resources, depend upon you.
They ask that you deliver them from all their restlessness, that you reveal to them, scattered and wandering as they are, the clear light of truth.