Top 15 Chilon of Sparta Quotes

To rule one’s tongue, especially at a banquet, and not to speak ill of one’s neighbors; for if one does so one is sure to hear what one will not like.

To be silent about secrets; to make good use of one’s leisure, and to be able to submit to injustice.

The reason is because I know how to bear injustice, but you do not.

a sole governor is in a slippery position at home; and I consider that tyrant a fortunate man who dies a natural death in his own house.

When speaking not to gesticulate with the hand; for that is like a madman.

Not to make too much haste on one’s road.

Not to desire what is impossible.

Not to dislike divination.

Not to let one’s tongue outrun one’s sense.

To learn how to regulate one’s own house well.

If one is strong to be also merciful, so that one’s neighbors may respect one rather than fear one.

Not to laugh at a person in misfortune.

To prefer punishment to disgraceful gain; for the one is painful but once, but the other for one’s whole life.

To keep a watch upon oneself.

Not to speak evil of the dead.