Marcus Aurelius · 121–180 CE
Meditations 10.30 — Marcus Aurelius
Translation by George Long (1862)
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 10.30
When thou art offended at any man’s fault, forthwith turn to thyself and reflect in what like manner thou dost err thyself; for example, in thinking that money is a good thing, or pleasure, or a bit of reputation, and the like. For by attending to this thou wilt quickly forget thy anger, if this consideration also is added, that the man is compelled: for what else could he do? or, if thou art able, take away from him the compulsion.
Cite this passage
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 10.30, tr. George Long (1862)
https://whatwouldstoicsdo.com/passage/meditations/10.30
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, tr. George Long (1862). Text: Standard Ebooks (CC0). Sources and licences
In plain English
AI-written notesWhen someone's fault offends you, look at your own similar errors, such as treating money, pleasure or a bit of fame as good in themselves. Add that the other person is acting under the compulsion of his own beliefs and could do no other, and your anger fades; if you can, help free him from that compulsion.
Older wording
- “forthwith”
- — immediately
Themes and situations
- Anger
- Kindness and forgiveness
- Judgements and impressions
- Justice and fairness
- Being angry with someone
- Conflict at work
- Family conflict
- Betrayal
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