“Nothing is more noble, nothing more venerable than fidelity. Faithfulness and truth are the most sacred excellences and endowments of the human mind.”
- January 3, 106 BC – December 7, 43 BC
- Roman
- Orator, Philosopher, Statesman, Lawyer, Author
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Quote
“Nothing is more noble, nothing more venerable than fidelity. Faithfulness and truth are the most sacred excellences and endowments of the human mind.”
Explanation
Cicero praises fidelity—loyalty and faithfulness—as the highest of human virtues, placing it above all other moral qualities. He asserts that truth and loyalty are not only admirable but sacred, essential to the dignity and strength of the human spirit. These traits form the foundation of trust, justice, and meaningful relationships, making them indispensable to both personal character and social harmony.
In Cicero’s philosophy, deeply influenced by Roman ideals and Stoic ethics, fidelity was not merely a private virtue, but a public and civic one as well. A faithful person, whether in friendship, family, or the state, contributes to the stability and honor of society. Truth, likewise, is not just accuracy in speech but an alignment with moral integrity and consistency. Together, these virtues elevate the mind and the community.
In modern life, where truth is often contested and loyalty strained, Cicero’s words remind us of the enduring value of being trustworthy and principled. Faithfulness to others and to truth itself requires courage and consistency, especially in times of conflict or uncertainty. His insight calls us to uphold these sacred excellences as pillars of a just and honorable life, both in thought and in action.
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