Opening Commentary on the Golden Verses — Hierocles in Plato Scroll… Continue →
Hierocles · Claude AI
First honour the immortal gods, as they are ordered by law, and revere the oath. Next, the illustrious heroes; and venerate the terrestrial daemons, performing what is lawful. Honour your parents too, and those most nearly related to you. Of all others, make him your friend who is best in virtue. Yield to gentle words and to helpful deeds, and do not hate your friend for a small fault, so far as you are able; for ability dwells close to necessity. Know these things so; and accustom yourself to master these: the belly first of all, and sleep, and lust, and anger. Never do anything shameful, either with another or by yourself; and above all, feel shame before yourself. Next, practise justice in deed and in word, and do not accustom yourself to act thoughtlessly in anything; but know that death is appointed for all, and that wealth is wont now to be gained, now to be lost. Of all the pains …
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