Book 1
1.34
His writings are said by Lobon of Argos to have run to some two hundred lines. His statue is said to bear this inscriptionAnth. Pal. vii. 83.: Pride of Miletus and Ionian lands, Wisest astronomer, here Thales stands.
1.35
Of songs still sung these verses belong to him: Many words do not declare an understanding heart. Seek one sole wisdom. Choose one sole good. For thou wilt check the tongues of chatterers prating without end.
1.35
Here too are certain current apophthegms assigned to him: Of all things that are, the most ancient is God, for he is uncreated. The most beautiful is the universe, for it is God’s workmanship. The greatest is space, for it holds all things. The swiftest is mind, for it speeds everywhere. The strongest, necessity, for it masters all. The wisest, time, for it brings everything to light. He held there was no difference between life and death. Why then, said one, do you not die? Because, said he, there is no difference.
1.36
To the question which is older, day or night, he replied: Night is the older by one day. Some one asked him whether a man could hide an evil deed from the gods: No, he replied, nor yet an evil thought. To the adulterer who inquired if he should deny the charge upon oath he replied that perjury was no worse than adultery. Being asked what is difficult, he replied, To know oneself. What is easy? To give advice to another. What is most pleasant? Success. What is the divine? That which has neither beginning nor end. To the question what was the strangest thing he had ever seen, his answer was, An aged tyrant. How can one best bear adversity? If he should see his enemies in worse plight. How shall we lead the best and most righteous life? By refraining from doing what we blame in others.
