Chapter 1: Understanding Wisdom

Wisdom stands as one of the four fundamental virtues in Stoicism, alongside courage, temperance, and justice. This post marks the beginning of a series exploring the essence of a virtuous existence.

"Virtue is a habit of the mind, consistent with nature, and moderation, and reason. … It has then four divisions — prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. Prudence [i.e., practical wisdom] is the knowledge of things which are good, or bad, or neither good nor bad. … Justice is a habit of the mind which attributes its proper dignity to everything, preserving a due regard to the general welfare. … Fortitude [i.e., courage] is a deliberate encountering of danger and enduring of labour. … [And] temperance is the form and well-regulated dominion of reason over lust and other improper affections of the mind.” — Cicero’s De Inventione (II.53–54)

For Stoics, wisdom transcends mere theoretical knowledge. It embodies the practical ability to navigate life effectively, make sound choices, and confront challenges with clarity and composure.

Socrates, often regarded as a precursor to Stoic thought, asserted that wisdom forms the basis of all virtues. He maintained that true knowledge leads to right action. Similarly, Epictetus emphasized the importance of discerning what lies within our control and what does not. He argued that genuine wisdom involves focusing on our own thoughts and actions while accepting the limits of external circumstances.

When we embrace what we cannot change, we alleviate unnecessary suffering. “The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control. Where then do I look for good and evil? Not to uncontrollable externals, but within myself to the choices that are my own,” wrote Epictetus. He further stated, “These are the signs of a wise man: to reprove nobody, to praise nobody, to blame nobody, nor even speak of himself or his own merits.”

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, also held wisdom in high regard. His reflections highlight the significance of perceiving reality without the distortion of emotions. For Aurelius, wisdom involved grasping the fundamental truths of existence, acknowledging the transient nature of life, and making choices aligned with a deeper understanding of reality. “The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are,” he articulated.

When we act with wisdom, we gain clarity. We prioritize what truly matters—virtue, integrity, and character—over fleeting desires and emotions.

All Stoic virtues are interrelated; however, wisdom is the cornerstone. It shapes our actions and judgments. A wise individual embodies honesty, justice, courage, and temperance. They maintain control over their impulses and live a balanced life. A wise person perceives the world objectively, free from the entanglements of their emotions or desires. They recognize that external events are beyond their control, directing their focus towards their own thoughts and actions. “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength,” states Marcus Aurelius.

Wisdom also encompasses an understanding of the nature of things. For Stoics, aligning our actions with the rational and natural order of the universe embodies wisdom. It involves living harmoniously within the natural world. Wisdom enables us to discern order and respond accordingly.

In everyday situations, Stoic wisdom encourages thoughtful responses over impulsive reactions. It prompts us to pause and reflect, allowing us to choose the most appropriate action. For instance, when faced with frustration from another, wisdom reminds us that we need not react with anger; instead, we can respond calmly, recognizing that their insults do not define us. “Choose not to be harmed—and you won’t feel harmed. Don’t feel harmed—and you haven’t been,” Aurelius noted.

Wisdom teaches acceptance of things we cannot alter: external events and others' thoughts and actions. Rather than succumbing to frustration, we focus on what we can control—our mindset. This virtue helps us perceive reality, live in accordance with nature, and respond to life's challenges with composure.

Understanding the distinction between what is within our control and what is not frees us from the burden of energy wasted on unchangeable circumstances. It allows us to concentrate on living virtuously, making wise choices, and accepting life as it unfolds. This mental shift is essential for discovering fulfillment and purpose, core tenets of Stoic philosophy.

As life presents uncertainties, wisdom equips us to navigate them without losing our equilibrium. It teaches us to focus on what we can influence. When frustration arises, I remind myself of what I can control and act accordingly. Wisdom encourages adaptability rather than resistance. It prompts us to ask: Is this within my control? If the answer is no, I release it. Wisdom is about seeing reality as it is, not as we wish it to be.

Life can often feel chaotic, but wisdom brings clarity. It develops through experience; the more we engage with it, the more adept we become. Every decision can manifest as “wisdom in action.” I apply these decisions as opportunities for growth. And when I falter, I learn from those experiences—that, too, is wisdom.

Guided by wisdom, I find peace in knowing I am doing my best and not chasing after what lies beyond my control. I concentrate on what truly matters, which brings a profound sense of fulfillment. “Do the one thing that can render you really happy: cast aside and trample under foot all the things that glitter outwardly and are held out to you by another or as obtainable from another,” advised Seneca.

While I may not possess all the answers, I navigate life with wisdom. It is not merely about recognizing what is right—it involves consistently and thoughtfully acting upon that knowledge each day.

“When you wish to delight yourself, think of the virtues of those who live with you. For instance, the activity of one, the modesty of another, the liberality of a third, and some other good quality of a fourth. For nothing delights so much as the examples of the virtues, when they are exhibited in the morals of those who live with us and present themselves in abundance, as far as is possible. Hence we must keep them before us.” — Aurelius, Meditations, 7.28

This video explores the four stoic virtues and their significance in achieving a fulfilling life, offering insights into practical wisdom.

In this video, learn how to incorporate the four virtues of Stoicism into your daily life for personal growth and resilience.