“The gods’ service is tolerable, man’s intolerable.”
- 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.
Quote
“The gods’ service is tolerable, man’s intolerable.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato contrasts the service or duty to the gods with the service or obligations imposed by human beings. He suggests that the divine service, which is rooted in truth, justice, and the higher good, is bearable and even fulfilling, as it aligns with eternal values and the order of the universe. Serving the gods, in this sense, is a pursuit of wisdom and virtue, which brings inner peace and aligns the soul with the greater cosmic order.
In contrast, Plato argues that the service imposed by human society—particularly when it is based on self-interest, power, or unjust laws—can be oppressive and intolerable. Human-made systems and obligations are often flawed, self-serving, and lead to suffering, as they may not align with the true and higher principles of justice. Plato’s point is that while duty to the divine brings us closer to moral and spiritual fulfillment, the demands of human society, especially when driven by greed or corruption, can feel burdensome and unjust.
This idea is connected to Plato’s view of justice and moral integrity. In his philosophy, service to the gods—which represents a life devoted to wisdom, virtue, and the common good—is aligned with the pursuit of truth and balance. On the other hand, the service required by human institutions, which often fail to promote the true good, leads to discontent and oppression.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the burden of societal expectations, social norms, or systems of power that are unjust or overly demanding. Plato’s insight suggests that while the pursuit of higher moral principles and spiritual goals can offer meaning and peace, the structures and systems imposed by human society, if unjust, can feel unbearable and unsustainable. The quote encourages reflection on whether our societal systems align with higher ideals of justice and the greater good, or if they serve self-interest and create suffering.
