Address to Young Men on the Right Use of Greek Literature Quotes

“So let us bear in mind the remark of Pythagoras, who, upon learning that one of his followers was growing very fleshy from gymnastics and hearty eating, said to him, 'Will you not stop making your imprisonment harder for yourself?' ... Since, then, this exaggerated care of the body is harmful to the body itself, and a hindrance to the soul, it is sheer madness to be a slave to the body, and serve it.”
― Basil the Great, Address to Young Men on the Right Use of Greek Literature

“Again, what further argument is needed against seeking the gratification of one's appetite than that it compels those who pursue it, like animals, to make of their bellies a god?”
― Basil the Great, Address to Young Men on the Right Use of Greek Literature

“But every man is divided against himself who does not make his life conform to his words, but who says with Euripides, 'The mouth indeed hath sworn, but the heart knows no oath.”
― Basil the Great, Address to Young Men on the Right Use of Greek Literature