8 mins

Top 10 Epicurus Quotes to Find Inner Peace and Happiness

Discover the wisdom of Epicurus through his philosophical quotes. Dive into his stoic teachings and gain insight with these wisdom quotes.
by The Blinkist Team | 2023-12-10

Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher, is known for his teachings on the pursuit of happiness and the importance of living a simple and balanced life. His philosophy, which was developed in the 4th century BCE, remains relevant today as it offers valuable insights into finding contentment and tranquility in a world filled with distractions and desires. Through his writings and teachings, Epicurus encourages individuals to prioritize inner peace, personal fulfillment, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.

In our fast-paced and chaotic world, finding inner peace and happiness can sometimes feel like an elusive goal. But according to the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, true happiness can be achieved through simple pleasures, self-reflection, and living in harmony with nature. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 Epicurus quotes that will inspire you to find inner peace, cultivate happiness, and embrace a more fulfilling way of life. These timeless words of wisdom will serve as a guide to help you navigate the challenges of modern life and discover the keys to true contentment. So, prepare to be inspired and embark on a journey towards inner peace and happiness with these powerful quotes from Epicurus.

10 Epicurus Quotes to Inspire a Life of Happiness and Pleasure

If God listened to the prayers of men, all men would quickly have perished: for they are forever praying for evil against one another.

Epicurus

This line emphasizes the complexity of human nature and the potential consequences of our desires. It suggests that if all our prayers were answered, the world would be consumed by chaos and destruction. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of our intentions and the impact they may have on others. Instead of praying for harm or ill-will towards one another, we should strive for compassion, understanding, and the betterment of humanity as a whole.

There is nothing terrible in life for the man who realizes there is nothing terrible in death.

Epicurus

This quote emphasizes the perspective that there is nothing truly terrifying or unbearable in life for those who understand and accept the inevitability of death. It suggests that by recognizing the impermanence of life and embracing the concept of mortality, one can find peace and freedom from fear. This quote encourages us to confront our mortality and live each day with a sense of gratitude and courage, knowing that death is a natural part of the human experience.

He who needs riches least, enjoys riches most.

Epicurus

This quote highlights the idea that true wealth and abundance are not measured by material possessions or financial wealth. It suggests that those who have a mindset of contentment and gratitude, and who are not dependent on external wealth, are the ones who truly enjoy the richness of life. This quote encourages us to shift our focus from accumulating material wealth to appreciating the simple joys and blessings that life has to offer, ultimately leading to a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness.

Let no one be slow to seek wisdom when he is young nor weary in the search of it when he has grown old. For no age is too early or too late for the health of the soul.

Epicurus

Epicurus offers timeless wisdom on the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom throughout one’s life. This quote emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from a young age and continuing the search even in old age. It suggests that there is no specific age limit for the development and nourishment of the soul. By encouraging a lifelong commitment to learning, Epicurus reminds us that the pursuit of wisdom is a continuous and enriching journey that can benefit individuals at any stage of life.

Live your life without attracting attention.

Epicurus

This quote reminds us of the importance of living a humble and modest life. It suggests that we should strive to live our lives without seeking attention or validation from others. By avoiding the desire for recognition and focusing on our own personal growth and fulfillment, we can find true happiness and contentment. This quote encourages us to live authentically and to prioritize our own values and aspirations rather than seeking external validation or approval.

Freedom is the greatest fruit of self sufficiency.

Epicurus

This quote highlights the inherent connection between self-sufficiency and freedom. It suggests that when we are self-sufficient, when we are able to rely on ourselves and meet our own needs, we experience a sense of liberation and independence. This quote encourages us to cultivate self-sufficiency in our lives, whether it be through acquiring new skills, developing our strengths, or becoming more self-reliant. By doing so, we can experience the greatest fruit of all – the freedom to live life on our own terms and pursue our own passions and dreams.

We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink.

Epicurus

Once again, Epicurus provides a thought-provoking perspective on the importance of human connection and companionship. This quote emphasizes the significance of shared experiences and relationships over material possessions or indulgences. It reminds us that true fulfillment and happiness come from the connections we forge with others, and that the simple act of sharing a meal or a drink can bring immense joy and satisfaction. Epicurus encourages us to prioritize human connection and companionship, recognizing their profound impact on our overall well-being and happiness.

He who has peace of mind disturbs neither himself nor another.

Epicurus

This quote, attributed to Epicurus, emphasizes the importance of inner peace and its impact on our relationships with others. It suggests that when we have a calm and tranquil state of mind, we are less likely to cause disturbances or conflicts, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others. This quote serves as a reminder to prioritize our mental well-being and strive for a sense of inner harmony, as it can positively influence our relationships and contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious world.

Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not.

Epicurus

This quote emphasizes the significance of appreciating and valuing what we already possess, rather than constantly longing for what we lack. It reminds us that the pursuit of material possessions or unfulfilled desires can often lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of contentment. Instead, this quote encourages us to find contentment in the present moment and to cultivate gratitude for the blessings we already have in our lives. By focusing on what we have rather than what we lack, we can experience a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness.

Being happy is knowing how to be content with little

Epicurus

Epicurus offers a valuable insight into the pursuit of happiness. This quote emphasizes the importance of finding contentment in simplicity and appreciating the little things in life. It suggests that true happiness does not come from material possessions or external circumstances, but rather from our ability to be satisfied with what we have. By embracing a mindset of gratitude and learning to find joy in the small pleasures, we can cultivate a lasting sense of happiness and fulfillment. Epicurus reminds us that true happiness is within our reach, if only we learn to appreciate the abundance that already exists in our lives.

In conclusion, Epicurus’s teachings provide a valuable roadmap to finding inner peace and happiness in our hectic world. By focusing on simple pleasures, self-reflection, and living in harmony with nature, we can cultivate a more fulfilling way of life. These ten Epicurus quotes serve as a reminder that true contentment lies within ourselves and is attainable through conscious choices and a shift in perspective. So, let these words of wisdom guide you on your journey towards inner peace and happiness, and may they inspire you to create a life filled with joy and fulfillment.

Set Boundaries, Find Peace (2021) lays out everything you need to know about boundaries: what they are, why you need them, and how to implement them in your life right now.

Set Boundaries, Find Peace

Set Boundaries, Find Peace


by Nedra Glover Tawwab
  1. 28 min reading time
  2. audio version available

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