"Men of sense often learn from their enemies. It is from their foes, not their friends, that cities learn the lesson of building high walls and ships of war"
- Aristophanes
About this Quote
This quote by Aristophanes speaks with the significance of gaining from one's opponents. He suggests that it is from our opponents, not our pals, that we learn the most crucial lessons. This might be interpreted as a warning to be aware of our enemies and to be gotten ready for any prospective dangers. It could also be translated as a suggestion to be available to gaining from those who oppose us, as they may have important insights that can help us to enhance and safeguard ourselves. By learning from our opponents, we can develop high walls and ships of war to protect ourselves from possible hazards. This quote is a suggestion that we ought to not be complacent and ought to always be prepared for any prospective danger.
"A person who doubts himself is like a man who would enlist in the ranks of his enemies and bear arms against himself. He makes his failure certain by himself being the first person to be convinced of it"
"A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act"
"Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind, spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies"