‘Yes,’ the king says, ‘but I want control over your judgements too.’ Who gave you that power? You cannot add the judgements of others to your conquests. [12] ‘I will win by way of fear.’ You do not seem to realize that the mind is subject only to itself. It alone can control it, [13] which shows the force and justice of God’s edict: the strong shall always prevail over the weak. [14] ‘Ten are stronger than one.’ Yes, for what, though? For taking people captive, for killing or dragging them off, for taking away their property. For main force, yes, ten are better than one. [15] But one person with right judgements is superior to ten without. Numbers here are irrelevant. Put them in the balance, the person with correct ideas will outweigh all the others.
Discourses 1.29.11
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the nature of true strength and control. As Epictetus notes, "the mind is subject only to itself" (Discourses 1.29.12). This reveals that true power lies not in external forces, but in the ability to control one's own judgments and thoughts.
This passage suggests that living well involves cultivating inner strength, which is rooted in having "right judgements" (Discourses 1.29.15). This means developing a strong sense of character, virtue, and wisdom, rather than relying on external factors like physical strength or numbers. As Epictetus says, "one person with right judgements is superior to ten without" (Discourses 1.29.15), emphasizing the importance of individual character over external circumstances.
To apply this insight today, one might reflect on their own values and judgments, asking themselves: What are my core principles, and am I living in accordance with them? Am I allowing external factors to control my thoughts and actions, or am I cultivating inner strength and wisdom? By focusing on developing their own character and judgment, individuals can cultivate a sense of true power and control, regardless of external circumstances.
As you go about your day, consider how you can apply this principle in your interactions and decisions, and ask yourself: What is one situation where I can choose to rely on my own inner strength and judgment, rather than external factors?