“Apply yourself both now and in the next life. Without effort, you cannot be prosperous. Though the land be good, You cannot have an abundant crop without cultivation.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
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Quote
“Apply yourself both now and in the next life. Without effort, you cannot be prosperous. Though the land be good, You cannot have an abundant crop without cultivation.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato emphasizes the need for dedication and effort in achieving prosperity and growth, both in this life and in the afterlife. The metaphor of land and crops highlights the idea that even if the conditions are favorable (like fertile soil), without cultivation—the work and care needed to develop and nurture it—there can be no abundant harvest. This suggests that prosperity is not something that happens by chance or solely because of external circumstances, but is the result of personal effort, discipline, and active participation in one’s own development. Plato implies that true success and fulfillment come from the cultivation of one’s virtues and knowledge, not from relying on external factors alone.
This idea connects to Plato’s broader philosophy, particularly in his belief that virtue and wisdom must be actively sought and cultivated through self-discipline and effort. In *The Republic*, he advocates for an education that shapes the soul and prepares individuals for the challenges of life and governance. Plato suggests that just as a farmer must consistently tend to the land to ensure a good crop, a person must apply themselves to moral growth, learning, and personal improvement in order to achieve a prosperous and just life.
In modern terms, this quote resonates with the idea that success, whether in career, relationships, or personal development, requires consistent effort and intentional action. It challenges the notion of instant success and encourages us to recognize that meaningful achievements are the result of hard work, commitment, and ongoing effort. Whether in this life or in our pursuit of spiritual fulfillment, we must actively cultivate our minds, hearts, and actions to reap the rewards of true prosperity.
