Pythagoras
Ionian Greek philosopher and founder of the religious movement called Pythagoreanism, often revered as a great mathematician, mystic and scientist.
Declining from the public ways, walk in unfrequented paths.
Work at these things, practice them, these are the things you ought to desire; they are what will put you on the path of divine virtue — yes, by the one who entrusted our soul with the tetraktys, source of ever-flowing nature. Pray to the gods for success and get to work.
As soon as laws are necessary for men, they are no longer fit for freedom.
He is not rich, that enjoyeth not his own goods.
There is geometry in the humming of the strings. There is music in the spacings of the spheres.
The best and greatest winning is a true friend; and the greatest loss is the loss of time.
Envy has been, is, and shall be, the destruction of many. What is there, that Envy hath not defamed, or Malice left undefiled? Truly, no good thing.
The oldest, shortest words— "yes" and "no"— are those which require the most thought.
Practice justice in word and deed, and do not get in the habit of acting thoughtlessly about anything.
Power is the near neighbour of necessity.
Man know thyself; then thou shalt know the Universe and God.
If thou intend to do any good; tarry not till to-morrow! for thou knowest not what may chance thee this night.
Pythagoras was indeed the first man to call himself a philosopher. Others before had called themselves wise (sophos), but Pythagoras was the first to call himself a philosopher, literally a lover of wisdom.
More importantly, for Pythagoras and his followers philosophy was not merely an intellectual pursuit, but a way of life, the aim of which was the assimilation to God.
Friends are as companions on a journey, who ought to aid each other to persevere in the road to a happier life.
A blow from your friend is better than a kiss from your enemy.
Many words befall men, mean and noble alike; do not be astonished by them, nor allow yourself to be constrained.
If a lie is told, bear with it gently.
But whatever I tell you, let it be done completely.
Let no one persuade you by word or deed to do or say whatever is not best for you.
By the air which I breathe, and by the water which I drink, I will not endure to be blamed on account of this discourse.
Dispose thy Soul to all good and necessary things!
Cut not fire with a sword.
There is geometry in the humming of the strings, there is music in the spacing of the spheres.