Quotes Meaning

"When you deal with your brother, be pleasant, but get a witness."

- Hesiod

The ancient Greek poet Hesiod, who lived around the same time as Homer, wrote about a wide range of topics related to society and daily life. He counseled people to keep cordial relationships while exercising caution when making deals or agreements with others, particularly family members.

Consider exchanging a valuable apple for a different variety from your brother. In order to ensure that the other person feels appreciated, it is crucial to approach this conversation with kindness and respect. But it's also a good idea to have someone else present who can verify what was decided upon, such as having a third party oversee the distribution of apples.

The significance of striking a balance between warmth and prudence in interpersonal relationships is reflected in this advice. In addition to encouraging people to act fairly and civilly, it also makes sure that agreements are understandable and accepted by others. This advice is timeless and still applicable today when interacting with friends or family, reminding us to be sincere while also exercising caution.

Hesiod's teachings frequently center on the idea of preserving peace in families and communities while simultaneously being mindful of the dangers that could result from miscommunication or dishonesty. His remarks serve as a reminder that although we should always strive for mutual kindness and cooperation, it is also critical to take precautions against potential problems that could later cause conflict.

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