Moralia sayings of spartans

The sayings and moral teachings of the Spartans, known as the "Moralia," were a collection of wisdom and principles that guided the lives of the ancient Spartan people. Some of the key sayings and beliefs of the Spartans include:

1. "Come back with your shield, or on it": This famous saying emphasized the importance of bravery and courage in battle. It meant that a Spartan warrior should either return victorious with his shield or be carried back dead on it, but never flee from the battlefield.

2. "Molon labe" (Μολὼν λαβέ): This phrase, meaning "come and take them," was the defiant response of King Leonidas of Sparta to the Persian King Xerxes when asked to surrender their weapons at the Battle of Thermopylae. It symbolizes the Spartans' unwavering determination and refusal to back down in the face of adversity.

3. "With it or on it": Another version of the first saying, this phrase meant that a Spartan warrior should either return victorious with his shield or be carried back dead on it. It reinforced the idea that a Spartan should never abandon their shield in battle.

4. "Sparta, why do you only produce good men?": This question was asked by a foreigner who was amazed by the exceptional qualities of Spartan men. It reflects the high standards of excellence and virtue that the Spartans upheld in their society.

5. "Spartans, eat to live, not live to eat": This saying emphasized the importance of discipline and self-control in all aspects of life, including eating habits. The Spartans believed in moderation and simplicity in their diet as a way to maintain physical and mental strength.

These sayings and teachings of the Spartans reflect their values of courage, discipline, self-sacrifice, and excellence in all aspects of life. They continue to inspire and resonate with people seeking to embody these virtues in the modern world.

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