“Solders, I had lately like to have been taken from you by the attempt of a few desperate men, but by the grace and providence of the gods, I am still preserved.”
- July 20, 356 BC – June 10, 323 BC
- Born in Macedonia
- King of Macedonia
- Established a vast empire and spread Hellenistic culture
Quote
“Solders, I had lately like to have been taken from you by the attempt of a few desperate men, but by the grace and providence of the gods, I am still preserved.”
Explanation
In this quote, Alexander the Great reflects on the dangerous nature of his leadership and the constant threats to his life. The phrase “attempt of a few desperate men” likely refers to assassination attempts or betrayals from within his own ranks, a reality for many powerful leaders. The grace and providence of the gods highlights the belief in divine favor and protection, which was prevalent in ancient Greek and Macedonian cultures. Leaders like Alexander often viewed their success and survival as influenced by the gods’ will, not just military strength.
From a historical perspective, Alexander was constantly at war, and several assassination attempts were made on his life. One of the most famous examples is the conspiracy involving his bodyguard Philotas, which led to the execution of several high-ranking officials. Despite these challenges, Alexander’s survival and ability to maintain his empire are often seen as a result of both his military genius and the perception of divine favor.
In modern times, the concept of divine intervention in personal or political survival may seem distant. However, leaders today still often invoke fate or higher powers during times of crisis. This quote can be applied metaphorically to modern-day leaders who face threats and adversities, emphasizing the idea that survival often depends on more than just one’s actions, but on circumstances that are beyond human control.
