The philosophy of Pythagoras, an ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, has had a profound impact on various fields including mathematics, physics, and philosophy. Pythagoras, along with his followers, established a school of thought known as the Pythagorean brotherhood. Their beliefs and ideas were based on the concept of numbers and the harmony of the universe. Below are 20 classic quotations from Pythagoras and an analysis of their views.
“Number is the ruler of all things.” This statement emphasizes the importance of numbers in understanding the universe. Pythagoras believed that everything in the world could be expressed and understood through numbers.
“A number is absolutely nothing but a measure of the multitude of equal parts.” Pythagoras saw numbers as a way to quantify and measure the world, dividing it into equal parts to understand its fundamental nature.
“All is number.” This famous saying encapsulates Pythagoras’ belief that the entire universe is based on mathematical principles.
“The universe is harmony.” Pythagoras viewed the universe as a harmonious system, where everything is interconnected through mathematical relationships.
“The beginning is the most important part of the work.” This quote highlights the importance of starting with a solid foundation in order to build a successful and meaningful life.
“He who is alone when he is called by the name of Pythagoras, let him depart, for he is called by God.” This statement reflects the secrecy and exclusivity of the Pythagorean brotherhood, who believed that their teachings were divinely inspired.
“Wisdom is the highest good.” Pythagoras valued wisdom as the ultimate virtue, believing that it leads to a deeper understanding of the world and one’s place in it.
“Believe that thou art a deposit of the divine, a child of the stars, and capable of achieving divine wisdom.” This quote emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the potential for individuals to achieve greatness and divine wisdom.
“The soul is immortal.” Pythagoras believed in the immortality of the soul, suggesting that it transcends the physical world and exists in a higher realm.
“Man should not live idle.” Pythagoras believed that idleness wastes one’s potential and that every individual should strive to contribute to society and pursue knowledge。
God is the mind and harmony of the universe.” Pythagoras saw God as the underlying force that governs the universe, embodying both mind and harmony.
“Silence is the friend of the wise.” This quote emphasizes the value of silence in fostering introspection, reflection, and the pursuit of wisdom.
“The beautiful is the right measure.” Pythagoras believed that beauty is not just an aesthetic quality but also a reflection of mathematical harmony.
“Order is God’s first law.” This statement highlights the importance of order and structure in the universe, as established by divine forces.
“As above, so below.” This maxim suggests that the patterns and structures found in the macrocosm (the universe) are reflected in the microcosm (the individual).
“The four elements, fire, air, water, and earth, are the fundamental components of the universe.” Pythagoras recognized these elements as the building blocks of matter, influencing later alchemical and philosophical traditions.
“By means of the numbers, the first principles of things may be discovered.” Pythagoras believed that numbers could reveal the fundamental principles underlying the world and its phenomena.
“The essence of things is number.” This statement reinforces the idea that numbers are not just a representation of things but also their essential nature.
“Music is a harmonious agreement of sounds.” Pythagoras was one of the first to explore the mathematical aspects of music, recognizing its harmonious relationships and its connection to the cosmos.
“The life of a wise man is a continuous exercise of understanding.” This quote emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the pursuit of understanding in life.
Pythagoras’ important philosophical works include the “Pythagorean Theorem,” a mathematical proof that shows the relationship between the sides of a right-angled triangle, and “The Golden Verses,” a collection of ethical and philosophical advice for his followers. Unfortunately, these works are not attributed to Pythagoras himself,
