Wisdom from the Ancients

Words of wisdom and advice for leading a good life have long been part of society, handed down from one generation to the next.

Plenty of these wise observations originated from the philosophers of Ancient Greece and Rome, and went on to circulate widely among the Arabic-speaking communities of the middle ages, who added new sayings of their own. This collection features over 400 sayings, riddles and aphorisms from the ancient and medieval world in English translation. Grouped by themes including medicine, food, politics and nature, they derive from a range of philosophers and physicians, from Aristotle, Socrates and Plato to al-Kindī, Ibn Hindū and al-Rāzī.

Packed with timeless advice to contemplate, share and enjoy, this entertaining book offers readers a gateway to ancient and medieval cultures whose musings on philosophy, health and life are as authoritative and relevant now as they were then.

'There is much to know, but life is short. Take the knowledge that you can achieve, from little to more.' — Hippocrates

'Wisdom is the nourishment and adornment of the soul.' — Ibn al-Ṣāʾigh al-ʿAntarī

'Pleasing all people is an impossible goal, but do not worry about the anger of those who are pleased with tyranny.' — Aristotle