On the philosopher's seclusion
8:5
Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.
5. “Hold fast, then, to this sound and wholesome rule of life; that you indulge the body only so far as is needful for good health.
The body should be treated more rigorously, that it may not be disobedient to the mind.
Eat merely to relieve your hunger; drink merely to quench your thirst; dress merely to keep out the cold; house yourself merely as a protection against personal discomfort.
It matters little whether the house be built of turf, or of variously coloured imported marble; understand that a man is sheltered just as well by a thatch as by a roof of gold.
Despise everything that useless toil creates as an ornament and an object of beauty.
And reflect that nothing except the soul is worthy of wonder; for to the soul, if it be great, naught is great.”
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the philosopher's seclusion
Location: Chapter 8, Section 5
Content:
5. “Hold fast, then, to this sound and wholesome rule of life; that you indulge the body only so far as is needful for good health.
The body should be treated more rigorously, that it may not be disobedient to the mind.
Eat merely to relieve your hunger; drink merely to quench your thirst; dress merely to keep out the cold; house yourself merely as a protection against personal discomfort.
It matters little whether the house be built of turf, or of variously coloured imported marble; understand that a man is sheltered just as well by a thatch as by a roof of gold.
Despise everything that useless toil creates as an ornament and an object of beauty.
And reflect that nothing except the soul is worthy of wonder; for to the soul, if it be great, naught is great.”