Previous Stoicism

FORGIVE THEM BECAUSE THEY DON’T KNOW

“As Plato said, every soul is deprived of truth against its will. The same holds true for justice, self-control, goodwill to others, and every similar virtue. It’s essential to constantly keep this in your mind, for it will make you more gentle to all.”

- MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS

Summary:
Marcus Aurelius, echoing Plato, reminds us that people do wrong not out of malice but ignorance. They lack truth and virtue not by choice, but because they don’t truly see or understand them.

Interpretation:
This insight is a call for compassion. When someone acts unjustly, selfishly, or cruelly, it’s often because they are spiritually or morally blind—not because they are evil. Understanding this doesn’t excuse their behavior but helps us respond with patience instead of bitterness. Like a teacher guiding a confused student, we’re asked to respond not with anger, but with calm empathy.

 

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