Epicurus
Greek · Philosophy · Others · Letter · Proverb
5 works · 2,141 aligned sentences
Letter to Herodotus
This work is a systematic yet concise letter written by the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus to his friend Herodotus, outlining the fundamental doctrines of his physics (natural philosophy). Its primary objective is to help readers attain peace of mind (ataraxia) by understanding the true nature of the universe and dispelling fears of death and the supernatural. Epicurus begins by establishing the reliability of sensory perception as the basis of knowledge, followed by the core principles that the universe consists solely of "atoms" and "void," and that nothing comes from nothing. He then explains the motion and properties of atoms, the mechanism of sensation through the emission of "images" (eidola), and the material, mortal nature of the soul. Finally, the letter addresses celestial phenomena, asserting they operate by natural necessity rather than divine will, and concludes by emphasizing that the ultimate goal of studying nature is to achieve tranquility free from superstitious fears.
Philosophy9 chunks · §35-40–§79-83733 aligned sentencesRead →Letter to Menoeceus
This work is a letter addressed by Epicurus to his disciple Menoeceus, outlining the fundamental principles of philosophy required to achieve a happy life. The author begins by asserting that both young and old should practice philosophy for the sake of happiness, explaining the correct conception of the immortal gods and the need to overcome the fear of death based on the premise that death is nothing to us. He then positions pleasure as the ultimate goal of life, but emphasizes the importance of rational choice and avoidance rather than the pursuit of all pleasures, highlighting the value of self-sufficiency (autarkeia). Epicurus defines true pleasure not as profligate enjoyment, but as the absence of pain in the body (aponia) and the absence of trouble in the soul (ataraxia). Finally, he extols prudence (phronesis) as the greatest virtue for attaining this state and concludes by advising a rational attitude toward fate and fortune.
Philosophy3 chunks · §122-125–§131-135254 aligned sentencesRead →Letter to Pythocles
This work is a letter written by the philosopher Epicurus to his disciple Pythocles, focusing on the study of celestial and meteorological phenomena. The author emphasizes the method of multiple explanations, arguing that various physical causes can simultaneously account for a single phenomenon. At the outset, Epicurus declares that the ultimate goal of studying nature is to achieve peace of mind (ataraxia) by eliminating superstitious fears. In the main body, he applies this scientific approach to a wide range of phenomena, including the movements of celestial bodies, eclipses, thunder, earthquakes, and various weather patterns, explaining them through physical processes like atomic collisions. Finally, the letter concludes with an exhortation to Pythocles to dedicate himself to the principles of natural philosophy and free his mind from myth.
Philosophy6 chunks · §84-89–§111-116471 aligned sentencesRead →Principal Doctrines
This work is a philosophical treatise in which Epicurus summarizes his core teachings for achieving a happy life in forty short maxims. The first part addresses the need for natural philosophy (physika) to dispel fears of the gods and death, while outlining the limits of pleasure and pain. The middle section discusses the limits of wealth, the management of bodily and mental pleasures through reason, and the vital role of sensory perception in determining truth. It also emphasizes that withdrawing from public life and cultivating friendship are key to obtaining ultimate peace of mind. The final part categorizes human desires and defines justice not as an inherent virtue, but as a mutable social contract designed to prevent mutual harm. Through these rational principles, the work presents a practical guide to achieving an undisturbed mind (ataraxia).
Philosophy3 chunks · §139-143–§149-154250 aligned sentencesRead →Vatican Sayings
This work is a collection of practical ethical maxims and sayings by Epicurus and his followers, designed to guide readers toward true happiness. Through short, aphoristic statements, it expounds the core doctrines of Epicurean philosophy, including attitudes toward death, pain, pleasure, and the study of nature. The collection emphasizes the limitation of desires and the importance of self-sufficiency (autarkeia), urging individuals to free themselves from the whims of fortune and empty social evaluations. Friendship is highlighted as a vital source of security and joy in life. Ultimately, the work serves as a guide for the "therapy of the soul," demonstrating how understanding nature and curing the mind leads to the ultimate state of tranquility (ataraxia).
Philosophy3 chunks · §1-25–§51-81433 aligned sentencesRead →