“Truth is the beginning of every good to the gods, and of every good to man.”
- 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
“Truth is the beginning of every good to the gods, and of every good to man.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato emphasizes that truth is the foundational principle for all good in both the divine and human realms. For Plato, truth is not simply factual accuracy, but the alignment with the ultimate reality, the eternal Forms that represent the highest good, justice, and virtue. When humans act in accordance with the truth—by seeking wisdom and understanding the deeper realities of life—they align themselves with what is truly good, both for themselves and for society. Similarly, the gods, in Plato’s view, embody the ultimate truth, and all divine goodness stems from their eternal wisdom and rightness.
This idea connects directly to Plato’s Theory of Forms, where truth is understood as the knowledge of the eternal, unchanging realities behind the physical world. In *The Republic*, Plato argues that a just society and a just individual are those who align with truth, as it is only through a clear understanding of truth that one can act justly, both for themselves and for the greater good of the community.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with the idea that truth is the foundation of ethical behavior and moral integrity. Whether in personal development, relationships, or society, acting in alignment with truth leads to clarity, authenticity, and justice. Plato’s message encourages us to seek truth in all areas of life, understanding that it is the starting point for all that is good and virtuous. Truth, for Plato, is the pathway to moral and intellectual excellence, and living in accordance with it brings harmony and fulfillment.
