Sayings of Cleobulus

As with most any tradition, there will be some disagreements regarding the details; this is a part of its charm. 

Sources differ on who should be included in the last two places of honor for the Seven Sages, and so the easiest way around this is to list all four of the remaining candidates. 

That way, one can pick two favorites, or simply think of them as the Nine Sages. 

The truth does not break, but it should be flexible, which is a very reason why it does not break. 

Cleobulus of Lindus (6th century BC) was a poet who was especially adept at riddles, and he may also have been the ruler of his city. One of his surviving riddles reads as follows: 

One sire there is, he has twelve sons, and each of these has twice thirty daughters different in feature; some of the daughters are white, the others again are black; they are immortal, and yet they all die. 

And the answer is, "The year."

Legend has it he invited Solon to live in Lindus after he was exiled by Pisistratus: 

You have many friends and a home wherever you go; but the most suitable for Solon will, say I, be Lindus, which is governed by a democracy. The island lies on the high seas, and one who lives here has nothing to fear from Pisistratus. And friends from all parts will come to visit you. 

He is said to have had a special commitment to the virtue of moderation, and many of his saying reflect the importance of balance and restraint. 

Moderation is best. 

It is want of taste that reigns most widely among mortals, and a multitude of words; but due season will serve. 

Set your mind on something good. 

Do not become thoughtless or rude. 

We ought to give our daughters to their husbands maidens in years but women in wisdom; thus signifying that girls need to be educated as well as boys. 

We should render a service to a friend to bind him closer to us, and to an enemy in order to make a friend of him. For we have to guard against the censure of friends and the intrigues of enemies. 

When anyone leaves his house, let him first inquire what he means to do; and on his return let him ask himself what he has effected. 

He advised men to practice bodily exercise; to be listeners rather than talkers; to choose instruction rather than ignorance; to refrain from ill-omened words; to be friendly to virtue, hostile to vice; to shun injustice; to counsel the state for the best; not to be overcome by pleasure; to do nothing by violence; to educate their children; to put an end to enmity. 

Avoid being affectionate to your wife, or quarreling with her, in the presence of strangers; for the one savors of folly, the other of madness. 

Never correct a servant over your wine, for you will be thought to be the worse for wine. 

Mate with one of your own rank; for if you take a wife who is superior to you, her kinsfolk will become your masters. 

When men are being bantered, do not laugh at their expense, or you will incur their hatred. 

Do not be arrogant in prosperity; if you fall into poverty, do not humble yourself. 

Know how to bear the changes of fortune with nobility.