Introduction
"Vatican Sayings" is a collection of sayings by the ancient Greek theorist Epicurus, that lived from 341 to 270 BCE. These expressions were later found within the Vatican Library, therefore the name "Vatican Sayings". Epicurus was the creator of the institution of philosophy known as Epicureanism, which promoted the suggestion that the objective of life is to obtain the highest degree of satisfaction and also joy with very little suffering. The "Vatican Sayings" provides understanding into the functional as well as honest aspects of Epicurean philosophy.
Enjoyment as the Primary Goal
Epicurus thought that the supreme objective of human life is to obtain enjoyment and stay clear of discomfort, which he thought about the crucial aspects of joy. Within the "Vatican Sayings", he stresses the relevance of easy satisfaction, such as friendship, intellectual pursuits, and physical wellness. He says that excess pain and suffering commonly result from the quest of extravagant and unnecessary points. True joy, according to Epicurus, originates from pleasing one's standard needs and also wishes without catching dangerous extremes.
Death and the Fear of the Unknown
Epicurus resolves the fear of fatality, a common concern among humans, in the "Vatican Sayings". He mentions that death is merely the lack of feeling, as well as hence must not be feared due to the fact that as soon as a person ceases to exist, they will certainly no longer experience discomfort or pleasure. This idea is shared in the well-known Epicurean rule, "Death is nothing to us". By identifying the impracticality of being afraid fatality, one can concentrate on experiencing the pleasures of life without being prevented by the concern of the unknown.
Friendship as a Source of Happiness
One of the main motifs in the "Vatican Sayings" is the relevance of cherishing relationships, which Epicurus viewed as vital to happiness. He believed that a real relationship is built on common trust fund, understanding, and also shared worths, as opposed to simple self-interest. According to Epicurus, a true buddy wait our side in times of requirement and adds to our well-being throughout our lives. He saw friendships as a crucial part for accomplishing inner peace and also enjoyment, which is why he developed an area known as the Garden in Athens, where he lived and taught with his pals and also fans.
Wisdom, Self-Sufficiency, and Virtue
Epicurus highlighted the need for knowledge as well as knowledge in leading one's search of enjoyment as well as happiness. He believed that via rational representation and also essential reasoning, we can identify our real desires and also demands, making it feasible to browse life a lot more effectively.
The "Vatican Sayings" also highlight the worth of self-sufficiency in accomplishing joy. Epicurus thought that relying on external sources for pleasure could be detrimental, as they are frequently unstable as well as past our control. Rather, creating inner strength and growing our virtues allow us to obtain a state of self-sufficiency, where we can experience real satisfaction and also fulfillment.
Conclusion
The "Vatican Sayings" offers a wide range of practical wisdom and also moral support for living a satisfied as well as meeting life according to Epicurean ideology. By asserting that pleasure is the ultimate objective of human presence, Epicurus encourages individuals to pursue the simple happiness of life while staying clear of unnecessary suffering. His focus on the importance of relationship, wisdom, as well as self-sufficiency highlights the need to develop inner virtues and also worths to attain enduring joy. With the teachings of Epicurus, we find out that the secret to a happy life depends on our capability to appreciate the small enjoyments, cultivate meaningful connections, and take on a reasonable overview that reassures us despite life's uncertainties.
Vatican Sayings
A selection of around 80 sayings attributed to Epicurus that were found inscribed on pottery shards in the Vatican.
Author: Epicurus
Epicurus, his philosophy on happiness, death, and friendship. Learn about his teachings, notable followers, and legacy. Be inspired by quotes.
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