Kitap 4
3.3
Tell me, Euthydemus, he began, has it ever occurred to you to reflect on the care the gods have taken to furnish man with what he needs?No, indeed it has not, replied Euthydemus.Well, no doubt you know that our first and foremost need is light, which is supplied to us by the gods?Of course; since without light our eyes would be as useless as if we were blind.And again, we need rest; and therefore the gods grant us the welcome respite of night.Yes, for that too we owe them thanks.
3.4
And since the night by reason of her darkness is dim, whereas the sun by his brightness illuminates the hours of the day and all things else, have they not made stars to shine in the night, that mark the watches of night for us, and do we not thereby satisfy many of our needs?That is so.Moreover, the moon reveals to us not only the divisions of the night, but of the month too.Certainly.
3.5
Now, seeing that we need food, think how they make the earth to yield it, and provide to that end appropriate seasons which furnish in abundance the diverse things that minister not only to our wants but to our enjoyment.Truly these things too show loving-kindness.
3.6
Think again of their precious gift of water, that aids the earth and the seasons to give birth and increase to all things useful to us and itself helps to nourish our bodies, and mingling with all that sustains us, makes it more digestible, more wholesome, and more palatable: and how, because we need so much of it, they supply it without stint.That too shows design at work.
3.7
Think again of the blessing of fire, our defence against cold and against darkness, our helpmate in every art and all that man contrives for his service. In fact, to put it shortly, nothing of any account that is useful to the life of man is contrived without the aid of fire.This too is a signal token of loving-kindness.
