Skip to main content
Customer Review
Reviewed in Canada on October 7, 2014
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus: an inspirational and effective leader of men; as a general in war, and as one of Rome's greatest emperors, The Meditations of this former persecutor of Christians, were incorporated in part, in later Christian Doctrine, probably a century or two after his demise, when the unofficial theology of Rome, and the accepted religion of the citizens and especially the majority of the Legions of Rome, had become Christian. Whether or not Marcus Aurelius was, in practice, a Christian, he was a stoic, and Book V Clause XII of the meditations refer to Temperance; Fortitude; Prudence and Justice, which were incorporated by the Church, along with Faith; Hope and Love (Charity), the theological virtues of St. Paul (Corinthians, II), to become the 7 Cardinal virtues. Stoicism was fundamental to Roman Religion, at least before, during and after MA's time (c. 120 to 180 A.D.), for its practical virtues of 'Self-Discipline and Self Restraint', and the high morality of individual honour and courage derived from the adherence to the stoic virtues, which usually rewarded its disciples with respect and admiration of their associates in lives which enjoyed personal peace, better health, and prosperity. Throughout the centuries, the best persons the world over, practiced these virtues whether they were Christian, Jews, or other.
I read some of the "Meditations" each day as a step toward self-improvement. In such a vicious time as ours,when so much of our news is brutal, it is a comfort, and somewhat satisfying, to 'fill one's head' with good thoughts.
I read some of the "Meditations" each day as a step toward self-improvement. In such a vicious time as ours,when so much of our news is brutal, it is a comfort, and somewhat satisfying, to 'fill one's head' with good thoughts.
