The Death of Marcus Aurelius

The Death of Marcus Aurelius

Monday, August 3, 2020

Epictetus, Golden Sayings 125


Know you not that the thing is like warfare? 

One man's duty is to mount guard, another must go out to reconnoiter, a third to battle; all cannot be in one place, nor would it even be expedient. 

But you, instead of executing your Commander's orders, complain if anything harsher than usual is enjoined; not understanding to what condition you are bringing the army, so far as in you lies. 

If all were to follow your example, none would dig a trench, none would cast a rampart around the camp, none would keep watch, or expose himself to danger; but all turn out useless for the service of war. . . . 

Thus it is here also. Every life is a warfare, and that long and various. You must fulfill a soldier's duty, and obey each order at your Commander's nod.

Yes, if it be possible, divine what He would have done; for between that Command and this, there is no comparison, either in might or in excellence. 


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