The Commentary of Hierocles upon the Golden Verses of Pythagoras

VER. XVII. XVIII. XIX. XX. Concerning all the calamities that men suffer by divine fortune, — Support with patience your lot, be it what it will, and never repine at it, — But endeavour what you can to remedy it.—And consider that fate does not send the greatest portion of these misfortunes to good men 74

VER. XXI. XXII. XXIII. There are among men several sorts of reasonings, good and bad : — Admire them not too easily, nor yet altogether reject them. — But if any falsehoods are advanced, give way with mildness 96

VER. XXIV. XXV. XXVI. Observe well, in every occasion, what I am going to tell you. — Let no man, either by his words, or by his actions, ever seduce you; — Nor intice you to say or to do what is not profitable for you 102

VER. XXVII. XXVIII. XXIX. Consult and deliberate before you act, that you may not commit foolish actions. — For it is the part of a miserable man to speak and to act without reflection. — But do that which will not afflict you afterwards 109

VER. XXX. XXXI. Never do any thing which you do not understand ; — But learn all that you ought to know, and by that means you will lead the most pleasant life 118

VER. XXXII. XXXIII. XXXIV. In no wise neglect the health of your body ; — But give it drink and meat in due measure, and also the exercise of which it has need.—Now, by measure I mean what will not incommode you 124

VER. XXXV. XXXVI. XXXVII. XXXVIII. Accustom yourself to a way of living that is neat and decent, without luxury. — Avoid all things that will occasion envy. — And be not expensive out of season, like one who knows 132