In the world of Stoicism, two names often stand out: Marcus Aurelius, the emperor, and Epictetus, the slave. It’s a remarkable testament to the versatility of Stoic philosophy that it resonated with both an emperor and an individual from the lowest rung of society. The core tenet of Stoicism, maintaining a calm mind amidst life’s tumultuous currents, knows no class boundaries. Stoic philosophy and the wisdom of Epictetus is accessible to everyone, regardless of their station in life.
The Pursuit of Inner Peace
Central to Stoic philosophy is the belief that genuine happiness is synonymous with inner peace. For the Stoics, flourishing is a state of tranquil contentment. This serene state of mind is considered the ultimate goal of human existence. Epictetus, through his works, underscores the paramount importance of tranquility, urging us to cherish it above all else – even wealth, reputation, or the physical body.
Epictetus emphasizes that achieving a calm mind does not entail manipulating or controlling external circumstances; rather, it hinges on the way we perceive and interpret these circumstances. His main work, “Discourses,” consists of a collection of lectures recorded by his student, Arrian. Arrian also compiled the “Enchiridion,” meaning ‘handbook,’ which provides an accessible and digestible introduction to Epictetus’s teachings.
The Blueprint for Calmness
Through the writings of Epictetus, we gain insight into how to navigate daily worries, cope with stressful events, and endure hardships while maintaining inner tranquility. Let’s delve into the wisdom of Epictetus, exploring his strategies for keeping a calm mind, regardless of life’s challenges.
1. Act in Accordance with Nature
One of Epictetus’s fundamental teachings is the principle of acting in harmony with nature. He exemplified this principle through a simple yet powerful lesson. When a student fell ill and expressed a desire to return home, Epictetus granted his request. However, he posed a critical question to the student: “Do you believe that, in your current condition, attending my class and improving your moral character is the right course of action?”
Epictetus’s response underscores the importance of aligning our actions with the demands of the present moment. It’s a reminder that we should not force ourselves to fulfill obligations when circumstances render us incapable. Instead, we should approach illness or adversity with acceptance, making choices that are conducive to our well-being in the given moment.
Epictetus acknowledges that illness may hinder the body, but it need not obstruct our capacity to make rational and tranquil choices. Applying this lesson to broader contexts, such as a pandemic, teaches us the importance of acknowledging reality, conducting informed research, and taking appropriate actions while maintaining a composed demeanor. Sickness and death, as natural occurrences, should be met with equanimity rather than irrational fear or denial.
2. Watch Your Judgments
Epictetus provides profound insights into the relationship between our judgments and our emotional state. He asserts that anxiety does not arise from external circumstances themselves but rather from our judgments about those circumstances. Each of us possesses a unique frame of reference through which we discern right from wrong, tolerable from intolerable.
While making judgments is a fundamental aspect of human cognition, our distress arises when we extend our sense of entitlement to things beyond our natural purview. Epictetus illustrates this point with a poignant example: the yearning for ideal parents. He reminds us that we are not entitled to ideal parents, only parents. This principle extends to numerous facets of life.
When we comprehend this concept, we recognize that many natural events, such as illness and death, are neither inherently good nor bad. They are simply part of the natural order. This realization empowers us to confront these inevitable aspects of existence with equanimity, free from irrational emotional attachments.
3. Focus Less on Things Outside Your Control
At the heart of Stoic philosophy lies the dichotomy of control, a concept that profoundly shapes Epictetus’s teachings. It posits that some aspects of life are within our control, while others lie beyond our influence. To achieve inner calm, we must concentrate our attention on what falls within our jurisdiction and relinquish concern over external events.
While individuals may harbor desires for control over the external world through means like wealth, power, physical prowess, or manipulation, the Stoic perspective posits that these are mere instruments that can influence but never dominate. We exert control over our own faculties, our thoughts, and our responses to external events. These are the domains worthy of our focus.
Practically, this philosophy suggests that we should develop a healthy indifference to external events. This does not entail complete disengagement; rather, it involves cultivating an attitude of serene detachment, recognizing that external circumstances are often beyond our capacity to alter fundamentally. Embracing the inevitabilities of life, a concept known as amor fati or the love of fate, enables us to navigate life’s challenges with a tranquil spirit.
In conclusion, Epictetus’s teachings offer a timeless blueprint for attaining inner peace and maintaining a calm mind amid life’s turbulence. By acting in harmony with nature, tempering our judgments, and focusing on the aspects of life within our control, we can navigate life’s unpredictable currents with grace and equanimity. Through the wisdom of Epictetus, we learn that the path to inner peace is not an elusive pursuit reserved for the elite but a philosophy accessible to all. May we find solace and wisdom in his enduring words. Thank you for reading.