“I exhort you also to take part in the great combat, which is the combat of life, and greater than every other earthly conflict.”
- 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
“I exhort you also to take part in the great combat, which is the combat of life, and greater than every other earthly conflict.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato calls on individuals to engage in the great combat of life, which he describes as the most significant struggle a person can face. This “combat” is not a literal battle, but rather the philosophical and moral challenges that we encounter throughout our lives. Plato suggests that the real conflict is the struggle for virtue, wisdom, and self-mastery—the internal battle to live in accordance with the higher ideals of truth, justice, and morality. He emphasizes that this spiritual and intellectual struggle is of far greater importance than any earthly conflict, such as wars or physical challenges.
This idea ties into Plato’s broader philosophy, where the pursuit of virtue and the good life is seen as the most important task for an individual. In *The Republic*, Plato speaks of the importance of reason, philosophical thinking, and the cultivation of the soul as the ultimate goal. This internal combat involves overcoming base desires, attaining wisdom, and living a just life. The true victory is not in external conquests but in the victory over oneself, leading to a life of harmony and moral integrity.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a reminder that the most profound challenges we face are often internal—the struggles with our own character, decisions, and values. Whether in the context of personal growth, career, or relationships, the “combat of life” requires us to consistently choose what is right over what is easy, and to align our actions with our deepest principles. Plato’s message encourages us to see life as a journey of self-improvement and moral responsibility, with the greatest battles being the ones fought within our own hearts and minds.
