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Meditations: A New Translation
Meditations is a series of personal writings by Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from AD 161 to 180, recording his private notes to himself and ideas on Stoic philosophy.
Marcus Aurelius wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in Koine Greek as a source for his own guidance and self-improvement. It is possible that large portions of the work were written at Sirmium, where he spent much time planning military campaigns from 170 to 180. Some of it was written while he was positioned at Aquincum on campaign in Pannonia, because internal notes reveal that the first book was written when he was campaigning against the Quadi on the river Granova and the second book was written at Carnuntum.
Marcus Aurelius wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in Koine Greek as a source for his own guidance and self-improvement. It is possible that large portions of the work were written at Sirmium, where he spent much time planning military campaigns from 170 to 180. Some of it was written while he was positioned at Aquincum on campaign in Pannonia, because internal notes reveal that the first book was written when he was campaigning against the Quadi on the river Granova and the second book was written at Carnuntum.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2023
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844 people want to read
About the author
Marcus Aurelius
1,286 books6,205 followersMarcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus (often referred to as "the wise") was Emperor of the Roman Empire from 161 to his death in 180. He was the last of the "Five Good Emperors", and is also considered one of the more important Stoic philosophers. His two decades as emperor were marked by near continual warfare. He was faced with a series of invasions from German tribes, and by conflicts with the Parthian Empire in the east. His reign also had to deal with an internal revolt in the east, led by Avidius Cassius.
Marcus Aurelius' work Meditations, written in Greek while on campaign between 170 and 180, is still revered as a literary monument to a government of service and duty and has been praised for its "exquisite accent and its infinite tenderness."
Marcus Aurelius' work Meditations, written in Greek while on campaign between 170 and 180, is still revered as a literary monument to a government of service and duty and has been praised for its "exquisite accent and its infinite tenderness."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
February 20, 2025
I’ve been reading a page of this every day in the morning for the last 6-8 months. Just like Marcus Aurelius writing it this way, I think it is meant to be read this way. It has helped me through tough times. *Cue The Holdovers’ Stoicism meme.*
I really really really appreciated the forward, and Hays setting the historical context of this emperor and the times he lived in, and the dominant belief/philosophy at the time about Logos. Knowing these contexts, I can more appropriately adapt each entry, and take what I actually need from it, with consideration of my own spiritual worldviews.
I really really really appreciated the forward, and Hays setting the historical context of this emperor and the times he lived in, and the dominant belief/philosophy at the time about Logos. Knowing these contexts, I can more appropriately adapt each entry, and take what I actually need from it, with consideration of my own spiritual worldviews.
April 16, 2024
New translation = easier interpretation. I am reminded why this is one of my favourite books of all time. Marcus Aurelius’ words are so freeing.
Read
January 19, 2025Useful read. As a Christian, I certainly don't agree with all of Aurelius's contentions, but there are interesting overlaps and useful reminders of how to approach life, particularly the idea of memento mori (remember death) - that we are all only here for a pre-determined, small period of time in the grand scheme of things. What we do with our time does, indeed, matter.
August 20, 2025
Mixed feelings on this one. It's amazing to be able to reach back in time and connect so directly with the inner world of someone who lived almost 2,000 years ago. Marcus was clearly struggling. He was frustrated with people and himself, he was afraid of death. He was so very human. Particularly in this modern translation, he feels so relatable. Not much has changed in all that time. There are some thought-provoking and comforting ideas here. And yet for all our similarities and his relatability, I think we ultimately believe in fundamentally different worlds. He believes that everything happens for a reason, that everything that happens is ultimately good. I'm not sure I believe that. That good things can come of anything? Maybe. That all things are natural and therefore good? Maybe not. But still, there are things here worth hanging onto.
July 16, 2025
The lesson I have learned: Everything occurs for a reason. You may not know of the reason. But the reason exists nonetheless.
April 1, 2024
Part diary, part lecture to himself, part musings, part attempt to understand his world, Aurelius's Meditations, are a lot of things, but most importantly, they offer a way of seeing the world and a reminder that human issues have been the same as long as we have been human.
While Aurelius is often called a Stoic, he's not only a Stoic, and to call him a great Stoic philosopher would be going too far--he incorporated lots of thoughts from a variety of philosophical schools, although he wasn't the source of a lot of original thought himself. (Stoicism would be the school he most identified with, however). Nonetheless, reading his work gives the reader a fascinating view into the inner life of a man who during his life could be said to be the most powerful person alive--and yet who had to deal with the same frustrations and, crucially, limitations on his life and lifespan that we all do. What emerges is a portrait of a remarkably sensitive, thoughtful leader, with much for the reader to learn by looking at the world through his eyes.
This is one I'll be returning to again, I'm sure. It might not be five stars for everyone, but it certainly is for me.
While Aurelius is often called a Stoic, he's not only a Stoic, and to call him a great Stoic philosopher would be going too far--he incorporated lots of thoughts from a variety of philosophical schools, although he wasn't the source of a lot of original thought himself. (Stoicism would be the school he most identified with, however). Nonetheless, reading his work gives the reader a fascinating view into the inner life of a man who during his life could be said to be the most powerful person alive--and yet who had to deal with the same frustrations and, crucially, limitations on his life and lifespan that we all do. What emerges is a portrait of a remarkably sensitive, thoughtful leader, with much for the reader to learn by looking at the world through his eyes.
This is one I'll be returning to again, I'm sure. It might not be five stars for everyone, but it certainly is for me.
October 16, 2024
I first read “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday which led me to Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations.” First and foremost, Meditations is in no way a story book. The insights are presented in a seemingly random, non sequential order that reflects Marcus’ personal notes during his time as emperor of the Roman Empire. It almost feels as though he never intended on his journal to be published, let alone be considered one of the greatest books of all time.
The reason I particularly appreciated Marcus’ writing style is because each sentence and paragraph stands alone, offering the opportunity to reflect on the message, and more importantly, find ways to apply it in real life. The wisdom Marcus “shares” isn’t just philosophical, it is also practical and timeless knowledge to help lead a balanced life. It’s a book that can be returned to time and time again, each time finding new meaning.
The reason I particularly appreciated Marcus’ writing style is because each sentence and paragraph stands alone, offering the opportunity to reflect on the message, and more importantly, find ways to apply it in real life. The wisdom Marcus “shares” isn’t just philosophical, it is also practical and timeless knowledge to help lead a balanced life. It’s a book that can be returned to time and time again, each time finding new meaning.
Want to read
May 26, 2025Pending...
December 28, 2024
Ive always been too anxious for stoicism to really resonate but i love philosophy so the three stars are for that
Read
May 17, 2025“Close to forgetting it all, close to being forgotten”
mhm mhm
mhm mhm
January 23, 2025
One of the oldest preserved books out there but also one of the very few books where you could only have this one book in your entire collection and never find any of the things in it Invaluable
August 3, 2024
I had intended to read Aurelius for some time, but just recently picked up this translation of “Meditations.” As soon as I started reading, I couldn’t put it down.
Marcus Aurelius’s “Meditations” is a profound and inspiring philosophy of human existence. Nature—which can be interchanged with God, it seems—is inherently, indisputably good; as humans, we are created to be good. We are created for kindness and self-sacrifice. We are good, and whatever happens to us is equally good; for all that happens to us is prescribed by Nature, who is the ultimate good and formulated everything in goodness.
Prior to reading this book, I believe I misconstrued Stoicism as foregrounding apathy. Although I knew this kind of apathy (being mentally/emotionally unaffected by what is external to us) has a different meaning than the one I usually associate with that word (uncaring/resignation), I now believe, after reading this book, that Aurelius’s emphasis on “apathy” goes deeper than either definition: this “apathy” or unaffectedness is, instead, rooted in acute awareness, critical thought, and understanding of ourselves, others, the world, and the relations between all of us. It relies on acceptance: that we are good; that what happens to us is good; that God is good; and that what we commit ourselves to and how we behave must be oriented toward the common good. Through encouraging us to seek a deeper understanding of ourselves, each other, our experiences, the world, and the relations between them, Aurelius’s philosophy allows us to retain our inner peace, kindness, and cooperation at all times, regardless of how external circumstances may attempt to disrupt, injure, or distract us.
In other words, Stoic “apathy” is not synonymous with being uncaring, unaware, and/or resigned. See page 134, for example:
“ ‘Cooperation’ means accepting what nature assigns you—accept it willingly.
‘Disinterest’ means that intelligence should rise above the movements of the flesh—the rough and the smooth alike. Should rise above fame, above death, and everything like them” (Aurelius 134).
As humans, we are called to be better than our external circumstances, whatever they may be. We must not be intellectually or emotionally absorbed in what is external to or what happens to us, for (1) we cannot control what is external to us and (2) change and external experience are tenets of being human, which makes them inherently good. For we experience change as Nature—who is supreme and ultimate goodness—embodies constant transformation. If Nature experiences change and transformation, and thus prescribes it for us, how can it not be inherently good? We, as humans, are called to understand our experiences and encounters as such—in Aurelius’s words, accept “what Nature has assigned us”; and, if we set our minds on this approach, our inner and intellectual peace will remain unflinching.
Everything and everyone transitions and decays into each other. Nothing is truly, wholly separate from anything else. In this way, Aurelius posits death as necessarily and inexplicably related to life. And when Aurelius talks about death, he is not merely referring to that final, human death (although he does speak about this often), but he is also speaking about the little deaths peppered throughout every day, experience, encounter, movement, and relationship. In other words, death = change; and decaying = transition and recreation. Nature itself is ever-changing, ever-transitioning, and thus, ever-dying: if Nature—who is supremely good—is this very process, how can it not be good? And, if what Nature prescribes is always good, how can death harm us? Everything and everyone is always dying in some way or another; and we are called not to fear that, but to accept that. From page 137:
“Bear in mind that everything that exists is already fraying at the edges, and in transition, subject to fragmentation and rot. Or that everything was born to die” (Aurelius 137).
Aurelius is not calling us toward fear or morbid obsession; he is, again, emphasizing acceptance. If we accept everyday deaths and the inevitability of our final death, death cannot harm us; and if Nature prescribes it, death must be inherently good.
To me, this book is remarkably hopeful, emphasizing the innate goodness of God and of humankind. In short, Aurelius seems to be saying that we, as humans, are made by good, for good.
Marcus Aurelius’s “Meditations” is a profound and inspiring philosophy of human existence. Nature—which can be interchanged with God, it seems—is inherently, indisputably good; as humans, we are created to be good. We are created for kindness and self-sacrifice. We are good, and whatever happens to us is equally good; for all that happens to us is prescribed by Nature, who is the ultimate good and formulated everything in goodness.
Prior to reading this book, I believe I misconstrued Stoicism as foregrounding apathy. Although I knew this kind of apathy (being mentally/emotionally unaffected by what is external to us) has a different meaning than the one I usually associate with that word (uncaring/resignation), I now believe, after reading this book, that Aurelius’s emphasis on “apathy” goes deeper than either definition: this “apathy” or unaffectedness is, instead, rooted in acute awareness, critical thought, and understanding of ourselves, others, the world, and the relations between all of us. It relies on acceptance: that we are good; that what happens to us is good; that God is good; and that what we commit ourselves to and how we behave must be oriented toward the common good. Through encouraging us to seek a deeper understanding of ourselves, each other, our experiences, the world, and the relations between them, Aurelius’s philosophy allows us to retain our inner peace, kindness, and cooperation at all times, regardless of how external circumstances may attempt to disrupt, injure, or distract us.
In other words, Stoic “apathy” is not synonymous with being uncaring, unaware, and/or resigned. See page 134, for example:
“ ‘Cooperation’ means accepting what nature assigns you—accept it willingly.
‘Disinterest’ means that intelligence should rise above the movements of the flesh—the rough and the smooth alike. Should rise above fame, above death, and everything like them” (Aurelius 134).
As humans, we are called to be better than our external circumstances, whatever they may be. We must not be intellectually or emotionally absorbed in what is external to or what happens to us, for (1) we cannot control what is external to us and (2) change and external experience are tenets of being human, which makes them inherently good. For we experience change as Nature—who is supreme and ultimate goodness—embodies constant transformation. If Nature experiences change and transformation, and thus prescribes it for us, how can it not be inherently good? We, as humans, are called to understand our experiences and encounters as such—in Aurelius’s words, accept “what Nature has assigned us”; and, if we set our minds on this approach, our inner and intellectual peace will remain unflinching.
Everything and everyone transitions and decays into each other. Nothing is truly, wholly separate from anything else. In this way, Aurelius posits death as necessarily and inexplicably related to life. And when Aurelius talks about death, he is not merely referring to that final, human death (although he does speak about this often), but he is also speaking about the little deaths peppered throughout every day, experience, encounter, movement, and relationship. In other words, death = change; and decaying = transition and recreation. Nature itself is ever-changing, ever-transitioning, and thus, ever-dying: if Nature—who is supremely good—is this very process, how can it not be good? And, if what Nature prescribes is always good, how can death harm us? Everything and everyone is always dying in some way or another; and we are called not to fear that, but to accept that. From page 137:
“Bear in mind that everything that exists is already fraying at the edges, and in transition, subject to fragmentation and rot. Or that everything was born to die” (Aurelius 137).
Aurelius is not calling us toward fear or morbid obsession; he is, again, emphasizing acceptance. If we accept everyday deaths and the inevitability of our final death, death cannot harm us; and if Nature prescribes it, death must be inherently good.
To me, this book is remarkably hopeful, emphasizing the innate goodness of God and of humankind. In short, Aurelius seems to be saying that we, as humans, are made by good, for good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2024
Key lessons:
- Our perceptions cause us issues, not the objects or events itself
- Work for the collective goods, treat others justly and fairly
- Actions should be based on intention -driven goals, not reactions to pain or in pursuit of pleasure
- You'll die no matter what. No one is remembered
- You'll make mistakes, but always go back to your purpose
- Look after the truth, don't be so stubborn to not recognize it when you don't have it
- Accept help if you need it
- You are part of a larger community, you benefit from doing things for the common good. Don't do it to expect something in return
"Concentrate every minute like a Roman -- like a man -- on doing what's in front of you with precise and genuine seriousness, tenderly, willingly, with justice. And on freeing yourself from all other distractions. yes, you can -- if you do everything as if it were the last thing you were doing in your life, and stop being aimless, stop letting your emotions override what your mind tells you, stop being hypocritical, self-centered, irritable. You see how few things you have to do to live a satisfying and reverent life? If you can manage this, that's all even the gods can ask of you"
"The tranquility that comes when you stop caring what they say. Or think, or do. Only what you do. Is this fair? Is this the right thing to do? Not to be distracted by their darkness. To run straight for the finish line, unswerving"
"When jarred, unavoidably, by circumstances, revert at once to yourself, and don't lose the rhythm more than you can help. You'll have a better grasp of the harmony if you keep on going back to it."
"Nature did not blend things so inextricably that you can't draw your own boundaries--place your own well-being in your own hands. It's quite possible to be a good man without anyone realizing it. Remember that."
"A man standing by a spring of clear, sweet water and cursing it. While the fresh water keeps on bubbling up. He can shovel mud into it, or dung, and the stream will carry it away, wash itself clean, remain unstained. To have that. Not a cistern but a perpetual spring. How? By working to win your freedom. Hour by hour. Through patience, honesty, humility."
- Our perceptions cause us issues, not the objects or events itself
- Work for the collective goods, treat others justly and fairly
- Actions should be based on intention -driven goals, not reactions to pain or in pursuit of pleasure
- You'll die no matter what. No one is remembered
- You'll make mistakes, but always go back to your purpose
- Look after the truth, don't be so stubborn to not recognize it when you don't have it
- Accept help if you need it
- You are part of a larger community, you benefit from doing things for the common good. Don't do it to expect something in return
"Concentrate every minute like a Roman -- like a man -- on doing what's in front of you with precise and genuine seriousness, tenderly, willingly, with justice. And on freeing yourself from all other distractions. yes, you can -- if you do everything as if it were the last thing you were doing in your life, and stop being aimless, stop letting your emotions override what your mind tells you, stop being hypocritical, self-centered, irritable. You see how few things you have to do to live a satisfying and reverent life? If you can manage this, that's all even the gods can ask of you"
"The tranquility that comes when you stop caring what they say. Or think, or do. Only what you do. Is this fair? Is this the right thing to do? Not to be distracted by their darkness. To run straight for the finish line, unswerving"
"When jarred, unavoidably, by circumstances, revert at once to yourself, and don't lose the rhythm more than you can help. You'll have a better grasp of the harmony if you keep on going back to it."
"Nature did not blend things so inextricably that you can't draw your own boundaries--place your own well-being in your own hands. It's quite possible to be a good man without anyone realizing it. Remember that."
"A man standing by a spring of clear, sweet water and cursing it. While the fresh water keeps on bubbling up. He can shovel mud into it, or dung, and the stream will carry it away, wash itself clean, remain unstained. To have that. Not a cistern but a perpetual spring. How? By working to win your freedom. Hour by hour. Through patience, honesty, humility."
February 15, 2023
It's difficult to review a book that has been read by many thousands or millions of people over the past two thousand years or so, including world leaders, philosophers and other academics, athletes, and everyday people who just want to live their best lives possible. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, Emperor of Rome (161-180), was never intended to be read by anyone other than its author. It is a collection of Aurelius' thoughts as they occurred to him, presumably over the course of his life. This book has no plot, no story arc, and no relatable characters, per se. Instead, it's a record of his daily journal that has been translated, interpreted, and transcribed repeatedly down through the ages. The individual entries have been compiled into 12 books, which are loosely arranged in chronological order; although there is some debate about that.
This book is remarkable for two important reasons. It provides a glimpse into the thoughts of a Roman emperor, and it defines his personal life philosophy. Aurelius was a student of Stoic philosophy, which he carried with him throughout his life. Meditations represents his version of Stoic philosophy as he applied it to his own life. It's this philosophy that informed his approach not just as a ruler, but also as a human being. The philosophical virtues that were important to Aurelius and other ancient Stoic philosophers transcend time and are just as applicable today as they were back then.
This is not a book to be read once and returned to the shelf to collect dust. It's meant to be read slowly and repeatedly; it's meant to be studied. I found myself often reflecting on individual passages while I searched for ways these ideas were relevant to me and my own circumstances. I've only read this book once, but it's clear to me that new revelations are likely to be revealed with each subsequent reading. Very few books can maintain their relevance beyond a few decades, let alone centuries or millennia. But this one does. This is one book to which I will return often as I polish my own personal philosophy, as so many have done before me.
This book is remarkable for two important reasons. It provides a glimpse into the thoughts of a Roman emperor, and it defines his personal life philosophy. Aurelius was a student of Stoic philosophy, which he carried with him throughout his life. Meditations represents his version of Stoic philosophy as he applied it to his own life. It's this philosophy that informed his approach not just as a ruler, but also as a human being. The philosophical virtues that were important to Aurelius and other ancient Stoic philosophers transcend time and are just as applicable today as they were back then.
This is not a book to be read once and returned to the shelf to collect dust. It's meant to be read slowly and repeatedly; it's meant to be studied. I found myself often reflecting on individual passages while I searched for ways these ideas were relevant to me and my own circumstances. I've only read this book once, but it's clear to me that new revelations are likely to be revealed with each subsequent reading. Very few books can maintain their relevance beyond a few decades, let alone centuries or millennia. But this one does. This is one book to which I will return often as I polish my own personal philosophy, as so many have done before me.
February 11, 2024
This book was well out of my comfort zone and a bit dry at times. Most of it went over my head, but there were quite a few meaningful/deep quotes. One of my favourites was:
"Yes, keep on degrading yourself, soul. But soon your chance at dignity will be gone. Everyone gets one life. Yours is almost used up, and instead of treating yourself with respect, you have entrusted your own happiness to the souls of others."
"Yes, keep on degrading yourself, soul. But soon your chance at dignity will be gone. Everyone gets one life. Yours is almost used up, and instead of treating yourself with respect, you have entrusted your own happiness to the souls of others."
September 9, 2024
I understand this book is comprised of his musings and while the content was indeed prophetic; I had a very hard time focusing. I would drift off in thought and have to reread a page numerous times. It's like the book forced my squirrel brain out of the present....!
The reason I seek out these types of reads.
Not the author or translators fault; worth a read to form your own opinion!
The reason I seek out these types of reads.
Not the author or translators fault; worth a read to form your own opinion!
January 4, 2025
This book helped me organize my life to overcome suicidal thoughts and persevere through Crohn’s Disease.
August 24, 2025
Every once in a while I like to take a deep dive into something that I enjoy. This time around I compared line for line the four versions of Meditations that I have at home, plus one that was available on my streaming service. My intent was to find one that really resonated with me and put the other three in the donation box . . . but only one ended up parting ways as three versions earned their keep in different ways: I’m keeping the Waterfield for the annotations, Gregory Hays for its sometimes humorous and casually conversational tone, and the version by the Hicks brothers (“The Emperor’s Handbook”) as my overall favorite. Into the donation box went the old Penguin Classics edition I’ve had for a long time.
I have pages of notes on the differences in translation, which will be of no interest to the average reader, and would be scoffed at by scholars as only scratching the surface. Needless to say, I found that different translations emphasized a certain perspective, and by taking them all in I was able to arrive at a stronger understanding of what Aurelius might have meant. I wouldn’t say the Meditations give comfort or succor, but that mindset does provide a sense of calm in the midst of chaos. While there is much to agree with, there are a few things I would point out that conflict with a post-Enlightenment sense of inquiry:
Aurelius writes from an age when very little (if any) change was observed in society between a grandfather’s time on Earth and a grandson’s. So Marcus observes frequently at the unchanging nature of things, and whether you live forty years or five hundred, it is all the same, “what’s to get excited about?” True, in terms of psychology, human nature hasn’t changed at the same level of our technological advances, but external conditions such as in medicine and technology have also had an effect on our interior worldview. Look at the significant changes just in our own lifetimes.
Sometimes a different translation helps make sense of a passage. When I read 8:49 in Hays I had to pause for a moment because this goes at odds with the scientific method of probity and exploration to seek out possible explanations. Hays has: “Stick with first impressions. Don’t extrapolate.” Hicks has: “Always stick to your first impressions, and don’t be adding inferences of your own.” But, in this case, Waterfield may be best: “Don’t elaborate on what your immediate impressions report. Always go with your first impression, adding no extra commentary of your own from within, and you’re not affected.” With the right wording, and the broader context of the passage, I figure that Aurelius is saying to not fret unnecessarily, to not let the mind spin out of control with dread. That, as opposed to my initial reaction, which was: take everything at face value, even from con men??
Another perplexing passage is found at 10:6. Hays isn’t completely clear: “What benefits the whole can’t harm the parts, and the whole does nothing that doesn’t benefit it.” What about cancer? Hicks is a little better: “nothing is bad for the part that is good for the whole, and the whole contains nothing which is not good for it.” Still, I wonder about slave labor: it may be good for the whole of society to build roads and bridges cheaply, so therefore slaves that die early from hardship is not a bad thing? Finally, Waterfield has: “The whole contains nothing that doesn’t contribute to its own good.” Again, I ask about cancer, murderers, or pestilence? We have to remember that the analogies that are used by Aurelius, and in ancient times in general, do not benefit from an understanding of anatomy, germs, or unseen phenomena. So take such passages in a more holistic manner.
Finally, my favorite passage (5:1) from the Hays translation, which in discussing the trouble of getting out of bed in the morning has a humor not found in other versions:
Is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm? But we have to sleep sometime . . . Agreed. But nature has set a limit on that – as it did on eating and drinking. And you’re over the limit. You’ve had more than enough of that. But not of working. There you’re still below your quota.
With that I guess I better get up from the computer and go pull some weeds in the garden!
I have pages of notes on the differences in translation, which will be of no interest to the average reader, and would be scoffed at by scholars as only scratching the surface. Needless to say, I found that different translations emphasized a certain perspective, and by taking them all in I was able to arrive at a stronger understanding of what Aurelius might have meant. I wouldn’t say the Meditations give comfort or succor, but that mindset does provide a sense of calm in the midst of chaos. While there is much to agree with, there are a few things I would point out that conflict with a post-Enlightenment sense of inquiry:
Aurelius writes from an age when very little (if any) change was observed in society between a grandfather’s time on Earth and a grandson’s. So Marcus observes frequently at the unchanging nature of things, and whether you live forty years or five hundred, it is all the same, “what’s to get excited about?” True, in terms of psychology, human nature hasn’t changed at the same level of our technological advances, but external conditions such as in medicine and technology have also had an effect on our interior worldview. Look at the significant changes just in our own lifetimes.
Sometimes a different translation helps make sense of a passage. When I read 8:49 in Hays I had to pause for a moment because this goes at odds with the scientific method of probity and exploration to seek out possible explanations. Hays has: “Stick with first impressions. Don’t extrapolate.” Hicks has: “Always stick to your first impressions, and don’t be adding inferences of your own.” But, in this case, Waterfield may be best: “Don’t elaborate on what your immediate impressions report. Always go with your first impression, adding no extra commentary of your own from within, and you’re not affected.” With the right wording, and the broader context of the passage, I figure that Aurelius is saying to not fret unnecessarily, to not let the mind spin out of control with dread. That, as opposed to my initial reaction, which was: take everything at face value, even from con men??
Another perplexing passage is found at 10:6. Hays isn’t completely clear: “What benefits the whole can’t harm the parts, and the whole does nothing that doesn’t benefit it.” What about cancer? Hicks is a little better: “nothing is bad for the part that is good for the whole, and the whole contains nothing which is not good for it.” Still, I wonder about slave labor: it may be good for the whole of society to build roads and bridges cheaply, so therefore slaves that die early from hardship is not a bad thing? Finally, Waterfield has: “The whole contains nothing that doesn’t contribute to its own good.” Again, I ask about cancer, murderers, or pestilence? We have to remember that the analogies that are used by Aurelius, and in ancient times in general, do not benefit from an understanding of anatomy, germs, or unseen phenomena. So take such passages in a more holistic manner.
Finally, my favorite passage (5:1) from the Hays translation, which in discussing the trouble of getting out of bed in the morning has a humor not found in other versions:
Is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm? But we have to sleep sometime . . . Agreed. But nature has set a limit on that – as it did on eating and drinking. And you’re over the limit. You’ve had more than enough of that. But not of working. There you’re still below your quota.
With that I guess I better get up from the computer and go pull some weeds in the garden!
February 12, 2025
Marcus Aurelius is known for being a stoic for controlling his emotions, accepting fate or death, trying to do good to all, taking responsibility and getting things accomplished and throughout all that he seeks peace. Peace inside himself, knowing that he is trying to do good and keep in unity with nature and logos. I personally wish that Marcus would’ve met the early apostles and learned of the true God Jesus Christ. He would’ve been able to hone his thinking to a more practical and fulfilling life instead of being fatalistic, assuming that humans are good in nature, and that true fulfillment is coming to grips with understanding that you can’t know everything, trusting a distant “logos” as being a good deity that created all things and rewards those who do good. I wish Marcus could have read and studied the Bible and I could’ve gotten his thoughts.
Many of Marcus ideologies and tools he uses for himself are very practical and a great reminder for those looking to find peace. I think a crucial aspect of his life ideals was his belief in a higher power that is good and controls all things. Much of Marcus peace is sitting in that very fact. That nature will do what it does and all you can do is control yourself, your actions, your perception, and your will.
Many of Marcus ideologies and tools he uses for himself are very practical and a great reminder for those looking to find peace. I think a crucial aspect of his life ideals was his belief in a higher power that is good and controls all things. Much of Marcus peace is sitting in that very fact. That nature will do what it does and all you can do is control yourself, your actions, your perception, and your will.
August 18, 2025
Marcus Aurelius was a stoic emperor. He wrote his meditations down like a journal and never expected anyone to ever read his private thoughts. There is a lot of wisdom in this book. This translation is an easy to understand modern translation. I have not ever read any other translations but I have one and I’m going to read that too. The wisdom in the book is practical and if you want a strong stoic mindset & control over yourself and your mind this is a great book to read.
“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.”
― Marcus Aurelius , Meditations
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love ...”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.”
― Marcus Aurelius , Meditations
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
“When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love ...”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
February 3, 2025
A book i believe I will come back to throughout my life. I loved the introduction by the translator, Gregory hays. It really set me up to understand the themes in Meditations, what certain phrases are really referring to, and how these all tie into the school of Stoicism as well. This was my first time reading in the thought of stoicism, so I appreciated all the context.
As this is Marcus’ personal journal, it of course repeats itself rather often, but I actually found this to be quite powerful because it feels like you’re learning the same lessons over and over again with Marcus throughout his life. The wisdom in this book is immense, and it truly changed my perspective on a number of life’s questions. In particular, the focus on an individual’s purpose in life really spoke to me and has sent me down a powerful thought journey in my own life. My guess is as I re read this book at different points, I’ll get something new out of it each time.
If you’re struggling with things like motivation, pain, or understanding your purpose (who isn’t?) then I’d give this one a read.
As this is Marcus’ personal journal, it of course repeats itself rather often, but I actually found this to be quite powerful because it feels like you’re learning the same lessons over and over again with Marcus throughout his life. The wisdom in this book is immense, and it truly changed my perspective on a number of life’s questions. In particular, the focus on an individual’s purpose in life really spoke to me and has sent me down a powerful thought journey in my own life. My guess is as I re read this book at different points, I’ll get something new out of it each time.
If you’re struggling with things like motivation, pain, or understanding your purpose (who isn’t?) then I’d give this one a read.
June 2, 2025
A book to come back to again and again.
Probably the most popular book on Stoicism, written in the later years as a personal journal by the Roman Emperor himself. Stoicism is commonly thought of as a Greek Philosophy. Yet, the Greek considered in foreign, as having come from abroad, from the Levant and of Phoenician origin. There is clearly an Eastern influence - especially when Marcus Aurelius distinguishes the mind from the body and insists we accept without pleasure or remorse that which Nature gives us.
There are some elements that require additional interpretation, like his relationship with the Gods. But even that works if you consider how he sees the Gods and obliquely questions our ability to really know of their existence, other than through "feeling" their influence .
Ideally, this would be taught to sixth graders. And then encouraged and reflected upon throughout life.
Probably the most popular book on Stoicism, written in the later years as a personal journal by the Roman Emperor himself. Stoicism is commonly thought of as a Greek Philosophy. Yet, the Greek considered in foreign, as having come from abroad, from the Levant and of Phoenician origin. There is clearly an Eastern influence - especially when Marcus Aurelius distinguishes the mind from the body and insists we accept without pleasure or remorse that which Nature gives us.
There are some elements that require additional interpretation, like his relationship with the Gods. But even that works if you consider how he sees the Gods and obliquely questions our ability to really know of their existence, other than through "feeling" their influence .
Ideally, this would be taught to sixth graders. And then encouraged and reflected upon throughout life.
October 12, 2023
Full of wisdom
What a fabulous 📖. The philosophy of Marcus is based on stoicism and he argues that the world is based on logos( logic) and there is a thread connecting every event therefore we should not be worried with things that are happening now because it was meant to be to maintain the universal order. The book revolves around, birth, death and purpose of life. Also, it specifies the basic reason for human birth to be kind and be of help to others , not to be perturbed or get disturbed with other person actions, never look for fame , as the person revering u will also be dead in sometimes.
Though the msgs are repetitive in many chapters . But the overall book is a beautiful read.
What a fabulous 📖. The philosophy of Marcus is based on stoicism and he argues that the world is based on logos( logic) and there is a thread connecting every event therefore we should not be worried with things that are happening now because it was meant to be to maintain the universal order. The book revolves around, birth, death and purpose of life. Also, it specifies the basic reason for human birth to be kind and be of help to others , not to be perturbed or get disturbed with other person actions, never look for fame , as the person revering u will also be dead in sometimes.
Though the msgs are repetitive in many chapters . But the overall book is a beautiful read.
September 13, 2024
The writings from 170 AD, 1800 years ago, are relevant today and show that human nature spans generations.
Some excerpts are expressions we still use:
"You can hold your breath until you turn blue, but they'll still go on doing it."
Some are thought-provoking:
"Stop whatever you're doing for a moment and ask yourself: Am I afraid of death because I won't be able to do THIS anymore?
Some are lol funny:
"It doesn't matter how good a life you've led. There'll still be people standing around the bed who will welcome the sad event." (The event being your death.)
Some are enlightening:
"It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but we care more about their opinion than our own."
Some excerpts are expressions we still use:
"You can hold your breath until you turn blue, but they'll still go on doing it."
Some are thought-provoking:
"Stop whatever you're doing for a moment and ask yourself: Am I afraid of death because I won't be able to do THIS anymore?
Some are lol funny:
"It doesn't matter how good a life you've led. There'll still be people standing around the bed who will welcome the sad event." (The event being your death.)
Some are enlightening:
"It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but we care more about their opinion than our own."
September 9, 2024
Meditations: A New Translation by Marcus Aurelius, translated by Gregory Hays, offers a fresh and modern take on the Roman emperor’s private reflections. Hays’ translation makes Aurelius’ Stoic wisdom clear and accessible without losing its philosophical depth. The book is full of practical advice on how to live with integrity, patience, and humility, focusing on what we can control and letting go of what we cannot.
Hays brings new life to Aurelius’ thoughts, making this version perfect for both newcomers and seasoned readers of Stoicism. If you’re looking for timeless guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges with grace, Meditations is a must-read.
Hays brings new life to Aurelius’ thoughts, making this version perfect for both newcomers and seasoned readers of Stoicism. If you’re looking for timeless guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges with grace, Meditations is a must-read.
September 30, 2024
An Absolute Must Read ¡!
Read it now, if you still haven't and Re-read it now if you read a different version or this one too a fair-few time back. I'd recommend folks read this on an e-book reader so as to have the highlights recorded and be able to go back to them since there'd be considerably many. The best part about this edition although a bit lengthier but only since it takes up 50+ pages at the start explaining Marcus' Life and the events with the timeline that shaped him, and then about 20-25 at the end informing who are the various persons he mentions throughout his life's note taking which in fact is what the book is.
Read it now, if you still haven't and Re-read it now if you read a different version or this one too a fair-few time back. I'd recommend folks read this on an e-book reader so as to have the highlights recorded and be able to go back to them since there'd be considerably many. The best part about this edition although a bit lengthier but only since it takes up 50+ pages at the start explaining Marcus' Life and the events with the timeline that shaped him, and then about 20-25 at the end informing who are the various persons he mentions throughout his life's note taking which in fact is what the book is.
March 2, 2025
Wisdom that stands the test of time
A collection of Marcus Aurelius’s notes to himself from almost 2000 years ago. His insights, wisdom and perspective on seeking truth, by controlling the mind, being kind, compassionate, and humble as the ultimate goal. Recognizing we only have the present moment to live in and we are all just atoms recycled by nature in a sliver of infinite time preceding and following our existence. The cycle repeats itself endlessly with little memory of any significance of our place in this grand universe. Recommended reading for all, especially our leaders.
A collection of Marcus Aurelius’s notes to himself from almost 2000 years ago. His insights, wisdom and perspective on seeking truth, by controlling the mind, being kind, compassionate, and humble as the ultimate goal. Recognizing we only have the present moment to live in and we are all just atoms recycled by nature in a sliver of infinite time preceding and following our existence. The cycle repeats itself endlessly with little memory of any significance of our place in this grand universe. Recommended reading for all, especially our leaders.
September 15, 2024
I don’t know about other translations of Meditations, but this one is beautiful, clear, insightful, instructive and freeing. A great thinker and feeler Marcus Aurelius was. And he was courageous and just, a mensch. That we all should be required to read this in high school before graduating, and our leaders every year re-read it, would begin (along with reading good and deep literature, classics), to improve and mature our struggling democracy, shallow social discourse, failing press, and broken civic and societal responsibilities.
February 13, 2025
I enjoyed this. This translation was really easy to follow. Some of the meditations seemed unfinished cause they would be ended in “<…>” and some of the sentences that had this wouldn’t really have a point.
Here’s the main ideas I got from these meditations:
- Act in your nature (and don’t expect praise for simply acting in your nature)
- Don’t worry about other people, that’s their problem
- Behave, have temperance, and be kind
- There is no reason to fear death
- Have discipline and don’t delay
Here’s the main ideas I got from these meditations:
- Act in your nature (and don’t expect praise for simply acting in your nature)
- Don’t worry about other people, that’s their problem
- Behave, have temperance, and be kind
- There is no reason to fear death
- Have discipline and don’t delay
May 16, 2025
This is not a book to be rushed. If you own the book make sure to have a pencil and highlighter at the ready to make notes and highlight passages that are meaningful to you. This translation has eleven ‘books’. It was helpful to take a pause after each book to digest his thoughts as one is not a ruler of an empire so it’s important to be mindful of his standing in the world in order to have perspective. This is a book to go back and reread parts when you need reminding that you are only one person and you can only do so much.
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