“He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the universe.”
- April 26, 121 – March 17, 180
- Roman Empire
- Roman Emperor
- Influenced by Stoic philosophy, he wrote “Meditations” and practiced ideal governance as a philosophical leader, and was later praised as one of the Five Good Emperors.
Quote
“He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the universe.”
Explanation
This quote from Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the deep connection between inner peace and the broader world. When we are in alignment with our true nature—our values, thoughts, and actions—we experience a sense of peace and order that extends beyond ourselves. For Aurelius, living in harmony with oneself means acting in accordance with virtue and reason, the core principles of Stoicism. This internal harmony allows an individual to resonate with the natural order of the universe, which operates on rationality and balance.
Aurelius, as both an emperor and philosopher, was faced with the challenges of leading a vast empire amidst constant political and military strife. Despite these pressures, his commitment to self-mastery and integrity helped him remain centered. His words reflect a Stoic understanding that the outer world is often chaotic and beyond our control, but by living in harmony with our inner selves, we can align our actions with the universal rationality and maintain peace, regardless of external circumstances.
In modern life, this quote encourages us to cultivate self-awareness and self-control. For instance, in stressful situations or moments of conflict, focusing on inner calm and rational decision-making helps bring clarity and balance. By acting in alignment with our true selves, we can create harmony within, which in turn allows us to navigate the complexities of life with greater resilience and peace. This approach fosters a life marked by contentment and a deeper connection to the world around us.
