Ancient Greece brought us many things, whether it was democracy, tragedy, or geometry. But amongst the philosophers, there emerged a group, not quite as renowned as the likes of Plato or Aristotle, but equally profound: the Seven Sages.
While individual tales of these sages abound, collectively they are best remembered for their sayings, wisdom-laden nuggets that offered guidance for generations. Among these sayings, the Delphic maxims held a special place.
Originating from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, these maxims served as a moral compass for the ancient Greeks.
In this article, we’ll be getting to know the Seven Sages a bit more and hopefully come out a tad wiser!
Who Were the Seven Sages?
The Seven Sages of Greece, often referred to as the “Septemviri Sapientes”, were a select group of individuals recognized for their wisdom, statesmanship, and philosophical insights. They were deemed exceptional not just for their intellect, but for the tangible impact they had on their respective city-states, whether through governance, legislation, or education.
Here are the illustrious seven:
- Solon of Athens
- Chilon of Sparta
- Thales of Miletus
- Bias of Priene
- Cleobulus of Lindos
- Pittacus of Mytilene
- Periander of Corinth
The Seven Sages of Greece
Quotes:
“Consider your honor, as a gentleman, of more weight than an oath.”
“Laws are like spider webs which, if anything small falls into them they ensnare it, but large things break through and escape.”
“Call no man happy until he is dead.”
“In giving advice, seek to help, not please, your friend.”
“Learn to obey before you command.”
1. Solon of Athens
Solon, hailing from Athens, was not only a sage but a lawmaker and poet, integral in shaping the early Athenian political landscape. His importance to Athens cannot be overstated. He was the reformer brought in to amend the crippling debt and slavery crisis, ultimately laying the foundation for democracy in Athens.
His reforms, known as Seisachtheia or “shaking off of burdens”, brought debt relief to many. Solon’s laws were inscribed on large wooden slabs, known as “axones”.
Quotes:
“Do not speak evil of the dead.”
“Honor old age.”
“Prefer punishment to disgraceful gain; for the one is painful but once, but the other for one’s whole life.”
“Do not let one’s tongue outrun one’s sense.”
“Restrain anger.”
2. Chilon of Sparta
Chilon, the Lacedaemonian from Sparta, occupied an esteemed position in the socio-political framework of ancient Greece. As a Spartan, Chilon’s philosophy were predictably imbued with the values of restraint, discipline, and virtue — core tenets of Spartan culture.
He held the office of ephor, one of the highest magistracies in Sparta, around the beginning of the 6th century BC. His tenure is marked with significant reforms, making him not just a sage but also a figure of political importance.
Some accounts suggest he might have been instrumental in the establishment of the ephorate, a council in Sparta that balanced royal authority.
Quotes:
“Nothing is more active than thought, for it travels over the universe, and nothing is stronger than necessity for all must submit to it.”
“Time is the wisest of all things that are; for it brings everything to light.”
“If there is a change, there must be some thing that changes, yet does not change”
“Water is the first principle of everything.”
“A multitude of words is no proof of a prudent mind.”
3. Thales of Miletus
Thales, hailing from the city of Miletus in Ionia, is often credited as the pioneer of Western philosophy. Beyond philosophy, Thales was also a groundbreaking mathematician and astronomer. His revolutionary proposition was that water is the primary essence of the universe, denoting an early endeavor to explain the world’s makeup without invoking myths.
Thales was also renowned for his expertise in geometry. He is attributed with the “Thales theorem,” suggesting that any triangle inscribed in a semicircle is a right triangle.
Quotes:
“All that is mine I carry with me.”
“Choose the course which you adopt with deliberation; but when you have adopted it, then persevere in it with firmness.”
“Do not speak fast, for that shows folly.”
“Gain your point by persuasion, not by force.”
“Cherish wisdom as a means of traveling from youth to old age, for it is more lasting than any other possession.”
4. Bias of Priene
Bias hailed from Priene, an ancient Ionian city. Bias was renowned for his sense of justice and is often cited as a model of the wise and just man of antiquity. As a sage, he had a reputation for helping to resolve disputes and for being a persuasive orator.
In terms of his philosophical perspectives, Bias emphasized morality, just conduct, and the importance of reflection before action. He is often characterized by a sense of humaneness, advising people to practice moderation in all things and advocating for harmony in life.
Additionally, he considered family and relationships to be of utmost importance and believed in upholding one’s duty towards family and society.
Quotes:
“Be fond of learning rather than unwilling to learn.”
“Seek virtue and eschew vice.”
“Be superior to pleasure.”
“Be ready for reconciliation after quarrels.”
“Do nothing by force.”
5. Cleobulus of Lindos
Hailing from the island of Rhodes, Cleobulus was the ruler of Lindos. He was famed not only for his wisdom but also for his physical strength and beauty.
A man of many talents, Cleobulus was also a noted riddle composer in his time.
His reign in Lindos saw various infrastructural developments, including the construction of aqueducts, which provided the city with a fresh water supply.
One of his known beliefs was the idea that the soul is immortal, aligning with broader Greek beliefs about the afterlife and the soul’s journey.
Quotes:
“Forgiveness is better than revenge.”
“Whatever you do, do it well.”
“Do not say beforehand what you are going to do; for if you fail, you will be laughed at.”
“Forbear to speak evil not only of your friends, but also of your enemies.”
“Know thine opportunity.”
6. Pittacus of Mytilene
Pittacus was a native of Mytilene on the island of Lesbos and served as its ruler for a time. He was credited with establishing a balanced constitution beneficial for the city and was celebrated for his wisdom and just rule.
He was known to emphasize the importance of character over learning, and his wise governance displayed an understanding of both the strengths and weaknesses of human nature. His rule was marked by several reforms, including those related to the reduction of penalties for crimes, reflecting his moderate stance and belief in reformation over retribution.
After governing Mytilene for about a decade, Pittacus voluntarily resigned and gave up his power.
Quotes:
“Pleasures are transitory, but honor is immortal.”
“Be moderate when prosperous, but prudent when unfortunate.”
“Be the same to your friends when they are prosperous, and when they are unfortunate.”
“Tranquility is a good thing.”
“Practice does everything.”
7. Periander of Corinth
Periander was the tyrant of Corinth, one of the wealthiest city-states in Ancient Greece. He held power for 44 years, during which Corinth saw significant economic and cultural growth.
Periander’s reign was marked by a combination of diplomacy, alliances, and military might. He made Corinth a hub of commerce and culture, establishing it as a pivotal maritime power in the ancient world.
Periander was also remembered for his oppressive and tyrannical actions. Stories suggest that he killed his wife and fell into disagreement with his sons. While his methods were sometimes harsh, his strategies and policies led to the enhancement of Corinth’s stature in Greece.
What are the Delphic Maxims?
The Delphic Maxims are a set of aphorisms inscribed at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. Traditionally, they are attributed to the Seven Sages of Greece, though it’s more likely that they represent collective wisdom rather than being the work of any specific individuals. They were meant to serve as guidelines for ethical and virtuous living.
According to Greek Mythology, it is said that the Maxims came from Apollo himself.
There are 147 Delphic Maxims, and they encompass a range of moral, ethical, and practical advice. The three famous ones that are inscribed on the temple entrance are:
- “Know thyself“
This maxim encourages self-awareness and introspection. To “know oneself” is to understand one’s strengths, weaknesses, desires, motivations, and emotions. It is a call for individuals to be honest with themselves, recognize their limits and capabilities. In a broader context, by knowing oneself, an individual can lead a life that is in harmony with their nature. This self-awareness is essential for moral and ethical decision-making. It was also thought that by understanding oneself, one could understand humanity as a whole and, by extension, the will of the gods.
- “Nothing to excess“
This phrase is a reminder of the virtues of moderation and balance in all things. Whether it be in emotions, actions, or desires, one should avoid going to extremes. Ancient Greeks believed that a balanced life was key to both personal happiness and societal harmony. Excess, be it in anger, pleasure, or pride, could lead to downfall.
- “Surety brings ruin“
This maxim warns against making promises lightly or entering into agreements without due consideration. “Surety” here refers to the act of vouching for someone, especially in matters of debts. In the close-knit communities of ancient Greece, one’s word and reputation were paramount. By becoming a surety, one risked not only financial loss but also their standing in the community. The maxim underscores the importance of cautious deliberation before making commitments.
