Kitap 11
931
Ath. The ancient laws of all men concerning the gods are two-fold: some of the gods whom we honor we see clearly i.e. the stars; cp. Plat. Laws 821b., but of others we set up statues as images, and we believe that when we worship these, lifeless though they be, the living gods beyond feel great good-will towards us and gratitude. So if any man has a father or a mother, or one of their fathers or mothers, in his house laid up bed-ridden with age, let him never suppose that, while he has such a figure as this upon his hearth, any statue could be more potent, if so be that its owner tends it duly and rightly.
931
Clin. And what do you say is the right way?
931
Ath. I will tell you: for in truth, my friends, matters of this sort deserve a hearing.
931
Clin. Say on.
