Epictetus – Noli Explicare Sed Involvunt (Don’t Explain, but embody)
Epictetus was a Greek philosopher who lived from around 55 AD to 135 AD. Despite being born a slave, he became a leading figure in Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasized reason, virtue, and self-control.
Life’s Journey
Epictetus’s life began in Hierapolis, present-day Pamukkale, Turkey, as a slave. He was fortunate enough to gain permission from his owner to pursue philosophy. This path led him to Musonius Rufus, a Stoic teacher who became his mentor. After the death of Emperor Nero, Epictetus obtained his freedom. For the next 25 years, he taught philosophy in Rome. However, Emperor Domitian’s banishment of philosophers from Rome forced him to flee to Nicopolis in Greece. There, he established a philosophy school and continued teaching until his death.
Epictetus emphasized that philosophy is a way of life, not just an intellectual pursuit. The quote “Don’t Explain, But Embody” captures this idea – true philosophy is revealed through our actions, not just our words.
Enduring Legacy
The influence of Epictetus’s teachings extended to many thinkers, including Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Even today, his ideas resonate with figures like James Stockdale, a US military officer, and Albert Ellis, the founder of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The core message of living a virtuous life and finding peace amidst challenges continues to hold relevance.
Key Ideas of Epictetus
- Dichotomy of Control: Separating what you can control (your thoughts and actions) from what you can’t (external events and other people).
- Virtue Ethics: Focusing on developing good character traits like courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance.
- Amor Fati: Accepting fate and what is outside your control.
- Stoicism in Action: Living philosophically by embodying your beliefs in your actions, not just talking about them.
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