44 Marcus Aurelius Quotes | Wisdom for eternity

Last updated on November 25, 2023 by Roger Kaufman

In a world constantly in turmoil and change, the words of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius provide a source of wisdom and comfort. Marcus Aurelius Quotes | Wisdom for eternity

His quotes are not only an expression of a profound philosophy of life, but also a guide for all those who strive for inner peace and clarity in their lives.

Marc Aurel, a proponent of Stoic philosophy, masterfully understood the complexity of human existence in succinct words.

Seine thoughts, captured in the famous “Self-Contemplations,” reflect an extraordinary depth of understanding of human nature and the world in which we live.

They are testaments to his relentless search for truth, justice and virtue.

The Quotes by Marcus Aurelius are more than just words; they are a mirror that encourages us to question our own lives and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal development.

At a time when external influences and... social media can strongly influence our thoughts and feelings, the words of Marcus Aurelius offer a welcome perspective.

They remind us that real Happiness and contentment from within us come and that we have the power to shape our lives positively through our thoughts and actions.

This collection of his best quotes is an invitation to immerse yourself in the world of one of the greatest philosophers of antiquity and to be inspired by him wisdom to be inspired.

Quotes Marcus Aurelius | 26 Timeless Wisdom | Quote life

“Don’t think so often about what you lack, but rather about what you have.” – Marcus Aurelius

“It's foolish plans for the whole life “Because life doesn’t go according to our plans.” – Marcus Aurelius

“If you can’t help yourself, no one else can help you either.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The best in People is that part that looks to truth and justice.” – Marcus Aurelius

“We all work together on the same work, some consciously and intelligently, others without knowing what they are doing.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The best way to take revenge is not to repay like for like.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Always consider only what is yours, and ask yourself what you should do and not what they will say.” – Marcus Aurelius

“You have the power to make yourself happy.” – Marcus Aurelius

“True joy is the joy of one’s own actions.” – Marcus Aurelius

“A man’s life is what his thoughts make of it.” – Marcus Aurelius

“If you want to be happy, you shouldn’t worry too much about the general public.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The art of life lies in a fine mixture Let go and holding on.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Accept what happens, just as you accept that the olive that ripens falls on the tree.” – Marcus Aurelius

"Every day offers you a new chance to be happy.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The soul is colored by thoughts. Color them with your own colors.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Our job is not to expect what life brings us, but to make the most of what we have.” – Marcus Aurelius

"The happiness of your life depends on the nature of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The best way to take revenge is not to retaliate with equal.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Our life is what our thinking makes it.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Don’t waste time with this Think about the mistakes of others.” – Marcus Aurelius

"Take your timeto heal your soul; take time to organize; take time to live.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The only thing that doesn’t depend on external circumstances is my inner attitude.” – Marcus Aurelius

“We should not be annoyed that things are not the way we want them to be, but rather grateful be that they are not worse.” – Marcus Aurelius

“You have power about your mind – not about external events. Recognize this and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Be tolerant of others and strict with yourself.” – Marcus Aurelius

“It is not death that a man should fear, but rather he should fear never beginning to live.” – Marcus Aurelius

What should I know about Marcus Aurelius?

Marcus Aurelius, known as one of the important Roman emperors and Stoic philosophers, is a key figure in the History. Here are some important aspects of his life and reign:

Lifetime and background: Marcus Aurelius ruled the Roman Empire from 161 to 180 AD. He was born in Rome in 121 AD and came from a distinguished family.

Co-emperor with Lucius Verus: He originally ruled jointly with his adopted brother Lucius Verus, which was a rare form of co-rule in the Roman Empire.

Philosophy and “self-reflections”: Marcus Aurelius was an important representative of Stoic philosophy. His best-known work, the “Self-Contemplations” (also known as “Meditations”), is a collection of personal notes that provide insights into his thoughts and philosophical beliefs. These writings apply today as classic literary works of philosophy.

Reign and military challenges: During his reign, Marcus Aurelius faced various military conflicts, particularly the Marcomannic Wars on the Danube border. These wars represented a significant challenge for the empire and took up most of his reign.

Succession and family: His son Commodus succeeded him as emperor. Commodus' reign marked a significant break with his father's philosophical and administrative principles and is often seen as the beginning of the decline of the Roman Empire.

Legacy: Marcus Aurelius's reign is often viewed as part of the Pax Romana, a long period of peace in the Roman Empire. His influence on philosophy, especially on Stoic ethics, remains to this day.

Marcus Aurelius's life and work offer rich insights into the Roman period History, philosophy and culture of his time.

His “Self-Contemplations” remain a central work for understanding Stoic philosophy and are important for its wisdom and appreciated their insights into human nature.

6 Marcus Aurelius Quotes Soul

Marcus Aurelius, as an influential Stoic, has many Thoughts on the subject of the soul and its relationship to human life voiced.

Here are some of his most famous quotes related to the soul:

“The soul is colored by thoughts. Color them with your own colors.” - This Quote emphasizes the importance of one's own thoughts in shaping one's own soul.

The art of living is more like wrestling than dancing because it aims to stand firm and unshakable and not be thrown off balance.” – Here Marcus Aurelius talks about them Strength and resilience of the soul in dealing with the challenges of life.

“You have power over your mind – not over external events. Recognize this and you will find strength.” - In this Quote is about control over one's own inner world and how this control contributes to strengthening the soul.

“Our job is not to expect what life brings us, but this Excellent to make what we have out of it.” – Marcus Aurelius emphasizes here how important it is to train the soul to make the best of every situation.

The happiness of your life depends on the nature of your thoughts.” - This Quote emphasizes the connection between the quality of thoughts and the state of the soul.

Accept what happens, just as you accept that the olive that ripens falls on the tree.” – Marcus Aurelius speaks here about the acceptance and serenity of the soul in dealing with the inevitable.

These quotes reflect the Stoic view that the soul is determined by reason and self reflection is strengthened and that it is able to triumph over external circumstances. Marcus Aurelius' thoughts offer deep insights into the nature of the human soul and how to cultivate and strengthen it in daily life.

What were Marcus Aurelius' best strategies?

Marcus Aurelius's strategies and leadership skills are viewed primarily in the context of his military and political challenges as Roman emperor.

Some of his most notable strategies were:

• Stoic philosophy as a guide: Marcus Aurelius used Stoic philosophy not only as a personal guide, but also as a basis for his decision-making and leadership. He emphasized reason, duty, and self-control, which helped him remain calm and focused during his reign.
• Decentralized military leadership: In the Marcomannic Wars, Marcus Aurelius often delegated orders to capable generals rather than relying on centralized command structures. This enabled a more effective response to the diverse and rapidly changing military challenges along the empire's extensive borders.
• Diplomacy and integration: Marcus Aurelius used diplomacy to defuse some conflicts and ensure peace. He integrated conquered peoples into the Roman Empire by offering them Roman citizenship or enlisting them in the Roman army. This integration promoted loyalty and stability in the border regions.
• Reforms and administration: He carried out various administrative reforms to improve government efficiency and promote citizens' living conditions. This included improving jurisprudence and promoting education.
• Personal presence at the front: During the Marcomannic Wars, Marcus Aurelius was often personally at the front. This presence not only boosted the morale of the troops, but also allowed him to have a direct influence on military operations.
• Crisis management: Marcus Aurelius showed remarkable skills in dealing with crises, be it epidemics such as the Antonine Plague or economic difficulties. He took measures to contain disease and stabilize the economy.
• Philanthropic measures: He also took measures for the welfare of citizens, such as providing relief goods and financial support to those in need, which increased his popularity and prestige as an emperor.

Marcus Aurelius' approaches were deeply rooted in his philosophical beliefs and were evident in his style of problem solving and leadership.

His legacy as a wise and competent leader rests not only on his military successes but also on his deep understanding of humanity and justice.

12 Marcus Aurelius Quotes Love

Marcus Aurelius spoke less directly about them of Love in the romantic sense as we understand it today, but his Stoic reflections also include themes of compassion, understanding and interpersonal relationships that can relate to love.

Here are twelve Quotes from Marcus Aurelius, which indirectly or in a broader sense touch on aspects of love:

“Be tolerant of others and strict with yourself.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The happiness of your life depends on the nature of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The best way to take revenge is not to retaliate with equal.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Our life is what our thinking makes it.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Accept what happens, just as you accept that the olive that ripens falls on the tree.” – Marcus Aurelius

Don't waste time with this Think about the mistakes of others.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The best part of man is that part that looks to truth and justice.” – Marcus Aurelius

“We all work together on the same work, some consciously and intelligently, others without knowing what they are doing.” – Marcus Aurelius

“You have the power to make yourself happy.” – Marcus Aurelius

“True joy is the joy of one’s own actions.” – Marcus Aurelius

“If you can’t help yourself, no one else can help you either.” – Marcus Aurelius

“The soul is colored by thoughts. Color them with your own colors.” – Marcus Aurelius

These quotes reflect Marcus Aurelius's view of love in the sense of self-love, compassion, understanding and the ability to overcome negative ones emotions and actions to go beyond.

They offer ways to be loving through understanding, acceptance and positive mindsets Relationships with yourself and with others can build up.