Marcusian Formulations

Marcus Aurelius reckoned humanity as a single family. Every individual, irrespective of nationality, religion, race or social standing, is gifted with reason. He, therefore, belongs to the same global community. Just as the organs of the human body work together for the well-being of the whole body, we are also intended to support one another.

The eyes don't compete with hands. The heart doesn't envy lungs. Every organ performs its duty faithfully in the interest of the body. Likewise, society flourishes only when its members work in tandem and not in opposition. Aurelius' contention that an unjust person is also impious allows us to interpret that morality is inseparable from spirituality. People think that piety consists merely of rituals, prayers or visits to places of worship. For Aurelius, piety could not be separated from ethical conduct. A person who cheats, deceives, exploits or humiliates is not morally and spiritually close to the Almighty.

He acknowledges that not everyone has the same abilities, resources or opportunities. A king, a teacher, a physician, a labourer or a parent each contribute to society differently. It is not the magnitude of one's contribution but the sincerity with which one fulfils one's duty that matters. A smile, a comforting word, an honest day's work, or a helping hand may be as valuable as grand acts of charity. Every person has the wherewithal to make someone else's life better. Equally significant is Aurelius' exhortation that we should 'in no wise hurt one another'.