17 Wise Quotes from Ancient Greek Philosophers

By: Natalie S.

Font Size:

A+ A-

"How can I reach happiness?" It is a question that laments in the hearts of each and every one of us and has been asked by humans since ancient times. The classical Greek philosophers, who discovered many of the most important foundations of modern Western science and philosophy, were also among the first to deal with this question, as well as many other issues concerning human existence and the feelings that surround it.

Their insights and statements are not only a subject for academic study, but they also contain valuable life wisdom that can be used today, and help to see the reality and the world in which we live in a clearer and sharper way, as well as finding our unique way to happiness and satisfaction. From Socrates to Aristotle, from Plutarch to Pythagoras – we invite you to read through 17 wonderful inspirational quotes that will present you with the wisdom of ancient Greece.

“If you think twice before you speak once, you will speak twice the better for it.” – Plutarch

“The very spring and root of honesty and virtue lie in good education.” - Plutarch

“If you do not expect the unexpected, you will not find it; for it is hard to be sought out and difficult.” - Heraclitus

“Wellbeing is attained by little and little, and nevertheless is no little thing itself.” – Zeno of Citium

“Anger begins in folly, and ends in repentance.” ― Pythagoras

“Freedom is secured not by the fulfilling of men's desires, but by the removal of desire.” – Epictetus

“The most effective kind of education is that a child should play amongst lovely things.” – Plato

“The price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.” – Plato

“We have two ears and one mouth, so we should listen more than we say.” ― Zeno of Citium

“Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” ― Plato

“Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.” – Socrates

“Make the best use of what’s in your power and take the rest as it happens.” – Epictetus

'For the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.” – Aristotle

“Friends are as companions on a journey, who ought to aid each other to persevere in the road to a happier life.” ― Pythagoras

"An army of deer led by a lion is more to be feared than an army of lions led by a deer." –Plutarch

The friendship of one wise man is better than the friendship of a host of fools. – Democritus

“By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you will be happy. If you get a bad one, you will be a philosopher.” – Socrates

Like Next Post Send Share WhatsApp

Copy Link

Did you mean:

Continue With: Facebook Google

By continuing, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy

Report copyright infringement

Print this content

You may also like:

Spirituality

16 Pearls of Wisdom from Socrates

To this day, people worldwide can relate and find the the wise words of Socrates useful and practical! Here are 16 quotes by the great philosopher!

Spirituality

A Poet's Deep Writing Still Resonates Centuries Later...

The poet Hafiz wrote beautiful poetry. His wise words are still relevant today and offer an inspiring perspective on life.

Spirituality

12 Valuable Life Lessons That Mom Taught Me

These Important Life Lessons I Learned From My Mother

At times, life can be hard, so we can all use a piece of good advice from time to time. Here are 12 valuable life lessons that my Mom taught me.

Spirituality

15 Ancient Stoic Quotes That Still Resonate Deeply Today

Here are 15 ancient and stoic quotes from the wise stoic Greeks and Romans to reflect on.

Spirituality

Audrey Hepburn - 16 Quotes on Love, Happiness and Optimism

Audrey Hepburn was one of the most beloved film stars and fashion icons of the 20th century. These quotes highlight her great heart, wisdom, and humility.

Spirituality