“Soldiers, 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
table of contents
Quote
“Soldiers, 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
This quote, attributed to Alexander the Great, was reportedly spoken after surviving an assassination plot, reflecting both his sense of divine protection and his emotional bond with his troops. In addressing his soldiers directly, Alexander frames the threat not as a personal danger alone, but as a potential loss for his entire army, thereby reinforcing his role as both leader and symbol of unity. By invoking the “grace and providence of the gods,” he aligns his survival with divine favor, a common motif in ancient rulership used to legitimize authority.
Historically, several conspiracies arose during Alexander’s campaigns—most notably the Philotas affair and the Pages’ Conspiracy, in which members of his inner circle were accused of plotting against him. Alexander’s reaction combined ruthless justice with theatrical appeals to loyalty, turning moments of danger into opportunities to consolidate power and galvanize devotion. This statement would have reassured his men while also reminding them of the fragility of order and the importance of vigilance.
In a modern context, the quote resonates with leaders who survive crises—whether political, corporate, or personal—and publicly reassert their purpose and resilience. It demonstrates the power of narrative in leadership: framing survival as providential and shared with followers deepens loyalty and inspires renewed commitment. Ultimately, the quote is a testament to how charisma, vulnerability, and divine rhetoric can turn a brush with death into a rallying cry for unity.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
