Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote reflects on the concept of temperance and its role in regulating our passions and desires. It suggests that temperance is a state of mind that allows us to control and manage our emotions and impulses.
The quote conveys the idea that temperance involves a deliberate and conscious effort to moderate and harness our passions. It implies that by developing a disposition of temperance, we gain the ability to restrain and regulate our emotions, desires, and impulses, rather than being controlled by them.
Furthermore, the quote suggests that temperance acts as a binding force that helps us maintain a sense of balance and harmony within ourselves. It implies that when we exercise temperance, we create a sense of control over our passions and prevent them from overpowering or leading us astray.
The message behind this quote emphasizes the importance of self-control, moderation, and emotional intelligence. It suggests that by cultivating temperance, we can navigate life's challenges and temptations more effectively, making thoughtful and balanced decisions.
In essence, this quote invites us to reflect on the power of temperance in guiding our behavior and influencing our emotional well-being. It encourages us to develop a mindset of self-discipline and emotional regulation, allowing us to maintain a sense of equilibrium amidst the turbulence of our passions and desires. By embracing temperance, we can foster inner harmony, make wiser choices, and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
A compelling historical example that illustrates the message of the quote, "Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion," is the life and leadership of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher. Marcus Aurelius is renowned not only for his role in governing the Roman Empire but also for his philosophical writings, particularly in his work "Meditations."
Marcus Aurelius faced numerous challenges during his reign, including military conflicts, political instability, and personal hardships. Despite these pressures, he consistently demonstrated temperance—an ability to control his emotions and passions. His writings reflect a deep understanding of how managing one's internal state is crucial for effective leadership and personal tranquility. For example, he often advised himself to remain focused on his duties and not to be swayed by anger or frustration, which were common in his turbulent era.
One notable instance is his handling of the Marcomannic Wars. Instead of letting the stress of prolonged warfare and the death of his family members lead to rash decisions or despair, Aurelius maintained a measured and thoughtful approach. His temperance allowed him to make strategic decisions that ultimately helped stabilize the empire and secure its borders.
This historical example underscores how temperance, as described by the quote, involves mastering one’s internal passions to achieve effective leadership and personal resilience. Marcus Aurelius's ability to remain calm and deliberate in the face of adversity illustrates how temperance can guide one’s actions and decisions, even in the most challenging circumstances.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In a real-life scenario, the quote "Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion" can be applied in a workplace setting where managing stress and maintaining professionalism are crucial. Consider an employee who is consistently faced with tight deadlines and high-stakes projects. The pressures of such a work environment can often lead to heightened emotions such as frustration or anxiety.
By practicing temperance, this employee would strive to manage their emotional responses rather than letting them dictate their actions. For instance, if a project doesn’t go as planned, instead of reacting with anger or panic, the employee can take a step back, assess the situation calmly, and focus on finding constructive solutions. This approach not only helps in addressing the immediate issue more effectively but also fosters a more positive work environment.
Moreover, temperance in this scenario involves recognizing when to take a break to recharge and avoid burnout, rather than pushing oneself to the point of exhaustion. By binding their passions—like the desire for immediate results or the fear of failure—the employee can maintain a clearer, more rational perspective. This practice of temperance helps in sustaining productivity, enhancing interpersonal relationships, and ultimately achieving better long-term outcomes in their professional life.
Thus, applying the principle of temperance in everyday work life involves managing one’s emotional reactions to maintain clarity and effectiveness, leading to more balanced and successful outcomes.
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.
