Quote of the day by Epictetus: All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and...'

Quote of the day by Epictetus: Epictetus was a Greek philosopher who lived from 50 AD to 135 AD. He is best known for his teachings on Stoicism, a philosophy that teaches people how to live a good life by focusing on what they can control and accepting what they cannot. Born as a slave in what is now Turkey, Epictetus experienced hardship early in life. Despite this, he became a respected teacher and philosopher, showing that circumstances do not define a person’s character.

Epictetus believed that true freedom comes from self-discipline and inner strength. He taught that we cannot control events around us, but we can control our thoughts, actions, and reactions. This idea is simple but powerful: if you focus on your choices instead of blaming others, you can find peace and happiness.

Quote of the day - "All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain," is widely attributed to Greek Stoic philosopher Epictetus.



Meaning of the quote

The Quote of the day by Epictetus means that living a good life is really about two main things: handling what life gives you and avoiding what can harm you. 'Sustain' means to endure difficulties, stay strong, and face challenges without losing control. Life will have problems, but staying steady helps you grow and stay peaceful. 'Abstain' means to avoid things that can hurt you, like bad habits, selfish actions, or unnecessary desires. Together, these two ideas show the core of philosophy: focus on what you can control, accept challenges, and stay away from harmful choices. By doing this, you can live a wise, calm, and happy life.


Epictetus' teachings were recorded by his student Arrian in books like The Discourses and The Enchiridion. These works are still read today and inspire people to live intentionally. Epictetus emphasized practical advice for everyday life, such as staying calm under pressure, accepting challenges, and treating others with fairness.

Even today, Epictetus’ philosophy resonates with people looking to reduce stress, improve focus, and find inner peace. His message is clear: happiness is not about wealth or fame, but about how we respond to life’s ups and downs. By practicing self-control, understanding our limits, and acting with virtue, anyone can live a meaningful and resilient life, no matter the circumstances.