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The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life
Life's Missing Instruction ManualEpictetus (c. 50-135 CE) was brought as a slave to Rome, where he became a great teacher, deeply influencing the future emperor Marcus Aurelius among many others. His philosophy, Stoicism, was practical, not theoretical--aimed at relieving human suffering here and now.And Epictetus knew suffering. Besides being a former slave, he was lame in one leg and walked with a crutch. After a decade of teaching in Rome, he was banished by Emperor Domitian; undaunted, he established a school in Greece. The Manual is a collection of Epictetus' essential teachings and pithy sayings, compiled by his closet student. It is the most accessible and actionable guide to Stoic philosophy, as relevant today as it was in the Roman Empire.This new edition is rendered in contemporary English, with a foreword, by Sam Torode (based on a translation by Thomas Wentworth Higginson). A companion volume, The An Emperor's Guide to Mastery by Marcus Aurelius, is also available from Ancient Renewal. A revised and further simplified edition of this book is now available, The 21st Century Edition (ASIN B09HP7C1M6). Read the sample pages of each translation to see which you prefer.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1978
About the author
Epictetus
857 books1,924 followersEpictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher. He was probably born a slave at Hierapolis, Phrygia (present day Pamukkale, Turkey), and lived in Rome until his exile to Nicopolis in northwestern Greece, where he lived most of his life and died. His teachings were noted down and published by his pupil Arrian in his Discourses. Philosophy, he taught, is a way of life and not just a theoretical discipline. To Epictetus, all external events are determined by fate, and are thus beyond our control, but we can accept whatever happens calmly and dispassionately. Individuals, however, are responsible for their own actions which they can examine and control through rigorous self-discipline. Suffering arises from trying to control what is uncontrollable, or from neglecting what is within our power. As part of the universal city that is the universe, human beings have a duty of care to all fellow humans. The person who followed these precepts would achieve happiness.
Other language versions:
Epictète
Epícteto
Epiktet
Other language versions:
Epictète
Epícteto
Epiktet
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
June 6, 2020
Do not say of anything "I have lost it," but rather, "I have given it back."
Has your wife died? You have given her back.
Has your child died? You have given him back.
Have you lost your home? You have given it back,
"But, you may retort, "a bad person took it." It is not your concern by what means something returns to the Source from which it came.
For as long as the Source entrusts something to your hands, treat it as something borrowed, like a traveler at an inn.
If you make peace with all things that are beyond your power, refusing to fight them, you will be invincible. If you desire the virtues within your power, there is no reason for envy or aping others. Instead of wishing to be a general, a congressman, or a celebrity, desire to be free. And the way to be free is to let go of anything that is not within your control.
Has your wife died? You have given her back.
Has your child died? You have given him back.
Have you lost your home? You have given it back,
"But, you may retort, "a bad person took it." It is not your concern by what means something returns to the Source from which it came.
For as long as the Source entrusts something to your hands, treat it as something borrowed, like a traveler at an inn.
If you make peace with all things that are beyond your power, refusing to fight them, you will be invincible. If you desire the virtues within your power, there is no reason for envy or aping others. Instead of wishing to be a general, a congressman, or a celebrity, desire to be free. And the way to be free is to let go of anything that is not within your control.
December 26, 2017
A Wonderful Translation
I'm a sucker for plainly written translations, and this exceeds expectations. As for the content, while you probably won't agree with every maxim (I didn't), there's no question you'll find several passages that will push you toward meaningful change in your life.
I'm a sucker for plainly written translations, and this exceeds expectations. As for the content, while you probably won't agree with every maxim (I didn't), there's no question you'll find several passages that will push you toward meaningful change in your life.
January 6, 2020
Lead me, Fate, wherever you will
and I will cheerfully follow.
For, even if I kick and wail,
all the same, I must follow.
_ Cleanthes
and I will cheerfully follow.
For, even if I kick and wail,
all the same, I must follow.
_ Cleanthes
February 22, 2020
Sok minden ismerős volt már a sztoikus gyorstalpaló olvasmányomból, amely ahhoz vezetett, hogy levegyem ezt a kötetet a polcról. Továbbra is azt gondolom, hogy nagyon jó alapötletek vannak benne, különösen az azzal foglalkozzunk, ami a mi hatalmunkban áll (saját reakciók, viselkedés, érzések), és ne próbáljuk kontrollálni azt, ami nem (mások viselkedése, gondolatai, érzései). De ne is tegyük ki a lelkünket/elménket védtelenül annak, hogy mindenféle külső, nem kontrollálható hatások kényükre-kedvükre kárt (vagy örömöt) okozzanak. Szóval belül, magunkban és magunknak teremtsük meg az egyensúlyt. Legyünk jelen, figyelmesen, tiszta mindfulness. Tudjuk, hogy mindennek ára van. Oké. Ugyanakkor fenntartom, hogy sosem szeretnék érzelmileg eltávolodni, főleg olyan mértékig, hogy ne rázzon meg borzasztóan egy hozzám közel álló személy halála. Hogy azt mondjam rá, ez az élet rendje. Szerintem ez nem egészséges, és ezért gondolják szívtelen dögöknek a sztoikusokat.
Aztán vannak olyan, ma vagy ebben a kultúrkörben már nem éppen elfogadható dolgok is, miszerint "Érdemes tehát megértetni velük [a nőkkel], hogy semmi másért nem becsüljük meg őket, hanem csak azért, ha szerényeknek és szemérmeseknek mutatkoznak.". Legyen nekem az az elégtétel, hogy ezt nemcsak olvasom, hanem még be is szólhatok érte.
A kiadás egészen különleges, a betűtípus, Zigány Edit kézírása valami csodaszép. Féltem tőle, hogy nehéz lesz olvasni, de nem volt az, és még akkor is gyönyörködtem közben, amikor maga a szöveg nem volt éppen szimpatikus. Erősen fel is húzza a csillagozást.
Aztán vannak olyan, ma vagy ebben a kultúrkörben már nem éppen elfogadható dolgok is, miszerint "Érdemes tehát megértetni velük [a nőkkel], hogy semmi másért nem becsüljük meg őket, hanem csak azért, ha szerényeknek és szemérmeseknek mutatkoznak.". Legyen nekem az az elégtétel, hogy ezt nemcsak olvasom, hanem még be is szólhatok érte.
A kiadás egészen különleges, a betűtípus, Zigány Edit kézírása valami csodaszép. Féltem tőle, hogy nehéz lesz olvasni, de nem volt az, és még akkor is gyönyörködtem közben, amikor maga a szöveg nem volt éppen szimpatikus. Erősen fel is húzza a csillagozást.
April 6, 2018
A simple, quick and easy to read translation of The Manual by Epictetus. This book is full of philosophical principals that I would like to live my life by. I have highlights on almost every page of this book!
January 18, 2021
The best philosophy book I've read in months.
Short read, but a treasure trove of information on stoicism.
This was such an excellent book.
Timeless classic aphorisms.
I'm very impressed by this book.
Further proof that Epictetus is my favorite philosopher.
Highly recommended for fans of Discourses and Selected Writings
4.9/5
Short read, but a treasure trove of information on stoicism.
This was such an excellent book.
Timeless classic aphorisms.
I'm very impressed by this book.
Further proof that Epictetus is my favorite philosopher.
Highly recommended for fans of Discourses and Selected Writings
4.9/5
April 7, 2018
Very quick and easy to read--nuggets of wisdom.
I finished the text in under 30 minutes but each but if wisdom requires deep contemplation and inner work. An interesting ancient perspective that still holds weight.
I finished the text in under 30 minutes but each but if wisdom requires deep contemplation and inner work. An interesting ancient perspective that still holds weight.
January 30, 2022
I wish I read this book when I was 25. A quick read on stocism and its principles that are so close to my personal principles and values. Some things are a bit vague and too abstract but still it’s a great read for young folks who judge themselves too often.
4.5/5
4.5/5
January 6, 2019
Now, this was a short book, I finished it in 30 minutes! The book cover is misleading: it's not a compilation of passages of Epictetus, it's a rewriting of his ideas entirely in Sam Torode's words, based on his reading and understanding of Epictetus.
The content is concise, clear and straightforward on how to act and think like a stoic philosopher. I rate it 4/5 because some ideas are repeated and because throughout the book, you do not get to grasp the context and the 'why' underlying the ideas.
November 21, 2018
A quick read, a reader's digest of Epictetus writings, the 'main points' taken out and put into very short chapters you can print in a calendar. If you're after the life advice portion, and only that - no historical context etc. - of stoic thought this is a good start.
(that's an entire chapter right there, and one of the longer ones!)
What of things, objects, and beings that delight your mind, are of good practical use, or which you dearly love? Remind yourself of their true nature, beginning with the smallest trifle and working upward.
If you have a favorite cup, remember that it is only a cup that you prefer—if it is broken, you can bear it.
When you embrace your wife or child, remember that they are mortal beings. By accepting their nature rather than denying it, if either should die you will find the strength to bear it.
(that's an entire chapter right there, and one of the longer ones!)
January 1, 2019
There are a whole bunch of short translations of the Enchiridion, and this is one of them. I can't really recommend one over the others, so I'd say get a bunch of them and read 'em all (they're cheap).
In terms of value/word, this is about as good as it gets. So I'll give it five stars and move on.
In terms of value/word, this is about as good as it gets. So I'll give it five stars and move on.
Read
December 20, 2020Three Sentence Summary
1. Only your thoughts and actions are within your power.
2. Do not be disturbed by things that are not within your power.
3. An event becomes how you interpret it, not what it actually is.
1. Only your thoughts and actions are within your power.
2. Do not be disturbed by things that are not within your power.
3. An event becomes how you interpret it, not what it actually is.
September 19, 2019
Nicely organized but redundant which is especially frustrating considering its size
January 7, 2020
I’m sure I’m going to read this over and over again.
Read
October 23, 2023Short, blurby, easy to read, and constructive. Good job Epictetus!
July 3, 2020
”You are the curator of your own fortunes and misfortunes”
”Of things some are in our power, and others are not. In our powers are opinion, movement toward a thing, desire, aversion (turning from a thing); and in a word, whatever are our own acts: not in our power are the body, property, reputation, offices (magisterial power), and in a word, whatever are not our own acts”
If you like or are familiar with Stoicism, none of what is in here will come as a surprise to you, but will more likely make you nod in agreement and make you reflect over your own character and life. If you’re not familiar, some parts may seem a bit cold and detached, but most of it will probably make sense, even if it seems hard or impossible in practice.
If you like vibrations, LOA, and manifestation you will also find a lot to approve of in here. Especially in the fragments, which not all are by Epictetus.
”Choose the best life, for custom (habit) will make it pleasant”
It is a great read either way, I would recommend it to anyone. It is short and invites you to think about your reactions and being in the world.
One of my favorite fragments happens to also remind me of one of my favorite lines from st. Paul.
Fragment: ”Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress”
Phillipians 4:11 ”For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (KJV)
But there is so much to love about this book, Epictetus, and Stoicism in general, if it is to your mental bent.
”For another will not damage you, unless you choose: But you will be damaged then when you shall think that you are damaged”
”And let silence be the general rule, or let only what is necessary be said, and in few words”
With that said. Read it.
”Of things some are in our power, and others are not. In our powers are opinion, movement toward a thing, desire, aversion (turning from a thing); and in a word, whatever are our own acts: not in our power are the body, property, reputation, offices (magisterial power), and in a word, whatever are not our own acts”
If you like or are familiar with Stoicism, none of what is in here will come as a surprise to you, but will more likely make you nod in agreement and make you reflect over your own character and life. If you’re not familiar, some parts may seem a bit cold and detached, but most of it will probably make sense, even if it seems hard or impossible in practice.
If you like vibrations, LOA, and manifestation you will also find a lot to approve of in here. Especially in the fragments, which not all are by Epictetus.
”Choose the best life, for custom (habit) will make it pleasant”
It is a great read either way, I would recommend it to anyone. It is short and invites you to think about your reactions and being in the world.
One of my favorite fragments happens to also remind me of one of my favorite lines from st. Paul.
Fragment: ”Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress”
Phillipians 4:11 ”For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (KJV)
But there is so much to love about this book, Epictetus, and Stoicism in general, if it is to your mental bent.
”For another will not damage you, unless you choose: But you will be damaged then when you shall think that you are damaged”
”And let silence be the general rule, or let only what is necessary be said, and in few words”
With that said. Read it.
August 1, 2021
At first I was drained from listening to Epictetus drone on and on; Like Admiral Stockdale I too thought: "Here I am a fighter pilot and martini drinker, and all I hear is this ancient rag droning on and on about not worrying about things outside the control of the will ; charitably put I thought him to be irrelevant". It would have been a mistake to stop there; like Epictetus he wants you to stop and wait to evaluate your impressions. My delayed impression is that Epictetus is an Incredible Teacher.
Like the beloved wounded Teacher Kheiron he has the heart of a Healer. Kheiron too was a Great Teacher part Human and part Horse. Like Kheiron Epictetus wants his students to "Adorn Themselves with Freedom, Dignity, and Self-Respect.
"Does a Horse have the beauty of a dog ? "You are a part of the intricate part of the greater whole of humanity, so act well the given part " "But such and such wants me to do this or that; Were you born to listen to the dictates of the mob, or to follow divine reason ? "
"Adorn Yourself with Dignity, Magnanimity, and self-respect "
Stoicism seems like an Individual Philosophy, but the real effect is to ennoble Greatness of Soul and Goodwill among men and women
Like the beloved wounded Teacher Kheiron he has the heart of a Healer. Kheiron too was a Great Teacher part Human and part Horse. Like Kheiron Epictetus wants his students to "Adorn Themselves with Freedom, Dignity, and Self-Respect.
"Does a Horse have the beauty of a dog ? "You are a part of the intricate part of the greater whole of humanity, so act well the given part " "But such and such wants me to do this or that; Were you born to listen to the dictates of the mob, or to follow divine reason ? "
"Adorn Yourself with Dignity, Magnanimity, and self-respect "
Stoicism seems like an Individual Philosophy, but the real effect is to ennoble Greatness of Soul and Goodwill among men and women
January 16, 2021
A most excellent book dealing with various situations in life and how to deal with them, the right attitude, reason, philosophy as a way of life, etc. A very short book worth a quick read, taking half an hour to an hour to read.
June 29, 2021
Good Handbook for Daily Reference.
It’s up to you. Basic Life Lessons fo anyone wanting to learn not to complain about the hand you’re dealt but rather to learn to play the hand you’re dealt wisely and live your Life! Quit your bitchin’
It’s up to you. Basic Life Lessons fo anyone wanting to learn not to complain about the hand you’re dealt but rather to learn to play the hand you’re dealt wisely and live your Life! Quit your bitchin’
July 19, 2021
This was the second reading. For me, this is an essential prompt to steer my thoughts in the right direction. So, I expect to re-read whenever my actions indicate the mind has strayed from the path.
September 12, 2020
Stoicism and Buddhism, in terms of practical philosophy, are basically two sides of the same coin. The former is the intellectual/mental path, and the latter is the meditative path. Truly both are the only acceptable forms of 'self-help.' This book and the Meditations by Marcus Aurelius emphasize the invincibility of the rational soul and the necessity of anchoring oneself in its stable ground to withstand the storms of life. It is not a very popular prescription but very purposeful. True freedom and lasting peace are the fruits of inner work and not the harvest of superior life circumstances. As Marcus Aurelius instructs, nurture the spark of divinity within and commit yourself to the projects of your higher nature during your time in the world. Well, I guess we can try.
November 9, 2018
I finally understand the guy who calls everyone normies
Honestly it wasn't bad although there was actually a lot I did not agree with. This took me a while to read despite being short. It was a bit judgy.
Honestly it wasn't bad although there was actually a lot I did not agree with. This took me a while to read despite being short. It was a bit judgy.
March 8, 2020
Agreed with some parts, disagreed with others. Not everything is fully applicable to modern-day life or should be taken literally. Regardless, it's a quick read and has several helpful nuggets of advice, especially for anyone who spends too much time/energy worrying about what others think.
January 9, 2019
Short and to the point. Truly one of the wisest Vulcans ever born on Earth.
January 15, 2020
60 pages of distilled philosophy. You can read it in 30 mins. And then read it again. And again. 1900 years old knowledge but repacked in modern English. Can not recommend it enough.
January 21, 2020
Condensed dose of philosophy. Quick read but great bullet list of small chapters
July 7, 2020
Concise, but full of meaningful thoughts and advices. Goes along wonderfully with Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations”
May 11, 2021
I can read this everyday. I'm thinking of getting an audible for this. It's a good book to listen while I commute to work or after work. Or washing my dishes or doing the laundry.
December 30, 2019
I read this because DHH recommends this book in the twitter.
Its main concept repeats what I have learned from a mentor and friend: “When anyone provokes you, remember that it is actually your own opinion provoking you. It is not the person who insults or attacks you who torments your mind, but the view you take of these things.” “This is only my interpretation, not reality itself.”
Its main concept repeats what I have learned from a mentor and friend: “When anyone provokes you, remember that it is actually your own opinion provoking you. It is not the person who insults or attacks you who torments your mind, but the view you take of these things.” “This is only my interpretation, not reality itself.”
December 28, 2019
Loved this! Nuggets of wisdom you would want to keep reading again and again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews