I had rather excel others in the knowledge of what is excellent, than in the extent of my power and dominion.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote conveys a preference for wisdom and knowledge over power and authority. It suggests that the speaker values intellectual and moral excellence more than mere control or dominion over others. This quote may reflect a desire for personal growth and enlightenment, prioritizing the pursuit of wisdom, understanding, and virtue as higher aspirations than seeking power or control over others.
Who said the quote?
The quote "I had rather excel others in the knowledge of what is excellent, than in the extent of my power and dominion." was said by Alexander the Great (Bio / Quotes). Alexander the Great was a Macedonian king who is widely regarded as one of the greatest military leaders in history.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote, "I had rather excel others in the knowledge of what is excellent, than in the extent of my power and dominion," reflects a preference for wisdom and excellence over mere power and control. A historical example that illustrates this sentiment is the life of Leonardo da Vinci, the quintessential Renaissance polymath.
Leonardo da Vinci, who lived from 1452 to 1519, was a figure of extraordinary talent whose interests spanned various fields including art, science, engineering, anatomy, and more. His greatest achievements were not merely a result of amassing power or influence, but rather through his relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
Despite his considerable skill and fame, Leonardo was not particularly wealthy or politically powerful. He moved frequently between different courts and cities, and his financial situation was often unstable. However, his legacy lies not in the extent of his political power or his ability to control others, but in his unparalleled contributions to human knowledge and creativity.
For instance, Leonardo's notebooks are filled with detailed observations on anatomy, physics, and engineering—areas where he excelled through rigorous study and innovative thinking. His artistic works, such as the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper," are celebrated not just for their technical mastery but also for their profound insight into the human condition. His focus was on understanding and creating what was excellent, rather than pursuing personal dominion or wealth.
Leonardo's life exemplifies the idea that the pursuit of excellence in knowledge and craft can lead to a more enduring and impactful legacy than the mere accumulation of power and authority.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In everyday life, this quote can guide individuals in choosing how they want to measure their own success and fulfillment. For instance, imagine someone who is contemplating their career path. They might face a choice between pursuing a role that offers significant power and high status or one that allows them to deeply engage with their passions and develop their skills to a high level of excellence.
If this person values the pursuit of excellence in their field over the mere trappings of power, they might choose a career that aligns more closely with their passions and interests, even if it does not come with a prestigious title or high salary. For example, an educator who finds joy in teaching and inspiring students may choose to stay in a modest teaching position rather than pursue a high-level administrative role with greater authority but less direct engagement with the subject matter they love.
Applying the quote in this scenario involves recognizing that true satisfaction and lasting impact often come from excelling in areas of personal excellence and deep knowledge rather than simply seeking to amass power or control. It encourages individuals to focus on personal growth, mastery of their craft, and contributing meaningfully to their field, rather than merely seeking external validation or positions of authority. This approach can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful life, where one's legacy is defined by the quality of their contributions rather than the extent of their control.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
