No man was ever wise by chance

Have you ever wondered what makes someone wise? Is it their education, their experience, their intuition, or something else? The ancient Roman philosopher Seneca had a simple answer: “No man was ever wise by chance.”1

Seneca was one of the most influential Stoic philosophers, who taught that wisdom is the highest virtue and the key to living a happy and meaningful life. He believed that wisdom is not something that happens by accident, but rather something that requires constant learning, practice, and reflection.2 3 ?

In this page, we will explore some of the sources and expressions of wisdom from different cultures and eras. We will learn from the insights and achievements of ancient sages and kings, such as Socrates, King Solomon, Julius Caesar, Genghis Khan, and Alexander the Great. We will also discover how wisdom is portrayed and communicated by modern authors and TV characters, such as Robert Greene, The Art of War, The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, Ragnar Lothbrok, Raymond Redington, Harvey Specter, Neal Caffrey, and Mozzie. We will see how their wisdom can inspire and guide us in our personal and professional lives.

Wisdom from ancient sages and kings

Socrates was one of the founders of Western philosophy, who challenged the conventional wisdom of his time and sought the truth through dialogue and questioning. He famously said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”2 He also said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”2 He was sentenced to death for corrupting the youth and refusing to acknowledge the gods of the state.

King Solomon was the son of King David and the third king of Israel, who was renowned for his wisdom and wealth. He built the magnificent Temple of Jerusalem and wrote many proverbs and songs. He asked God for wisdom to rule his people, and God granted him not only wisdom, but also riches and honor. He said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”3 He also said, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”3

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.– King solomon

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