Although no original writings ofPythagoras have survived antiquity,this collection of seventy-one aphorismsis mentioned by Hierocles of Alexandria inthe fifth century CE. From internal evidence,some scholars believe that they come from ahexameter poem by Pythagoras, which wastransmitted orally until persecution scattered thePythagoreans, and they were then committedto writing.1 The present edition is an originaltranslation by Florence M. Firth,2 adapted herefor modern readers.1. First worship the Immortal Gods, as theyare established and ordained by the Law.2. Reverence the Oath, and next the Heroes,full of goodness and light.3. Honor likewise the Terrestrial GuidingSpirits by rendering them the worshiplawfully due to them.4. Honor likewise your parents and thosemost nearly related to you.5. Of all the rest of humanity, make friendswith those who distinguish themselves bytheir virtue.6. Always give ear to their mild exhortations,and take example from their virtuous anduseful actions.7. Avoid as much as possible hating yourfriend for a slight fault.8. [And understand that] power is a nearneighbor to necessity.9. Know that all these things are as I havetold you; and accustom yourself to overcomeand vanquish the following passions:10. First gluttony, sloth, sensuality, and anger.11. Do nothing evil, neither in the presenceof others, nor privately;12. But above all things respect yourself.13. In the next place, observe justice in youractions and in your words.14. And do not involve yourself in anythingwithout rule or reason.15. But always realize that it is ordained bydestiny that all human beings shall die,16. And that the goods of fortune areuncertain; and that as they may be acquired,so may they likewise be lost.17. Concerning all the calamities thathumans suffer by divine fortune,18. Support with patience your lot, be it whatit may, and never repine at it.19. But endeavor what you can to remedy it,20. And consider that fate does not sendthe greatest portion of these misfortunes togood people.21. There are many possibilities that peoplecan choose from, both good and bad;The Golden Verses of PythagorasAnonymousOlga Deulofeu, S.R.C., PythagorasPage 2122. So, from among the possibilities, carefullychoose the best path for yourself.23. But if falsehoods be advanced, hearthem with mildness, and arm yourselfwith patience.24. Observe well, on every occasion, what Iam going to tell you:25. Let no person, either through words ordeeds, ever seduce you.26. Nor entice you to say or to do what is notbeneficial for yourself.27. Consult and deliberate before you act,that you may not commit foolish actions.28. For it is the mark of a miserable person tospeak and to act without reflection.29. But do that which will not afflict youafterwards, nor oblige you to repentance.30. Never do anything which you do notunderstand.31. Learn all you ought to know, and thusyou will lead a very pleasant life.32. In no way neglect the health of your body;33. Give it drink and food in due measure,and also the exercise of which it has need.34. Now, by measure, I mean what will notinconvenience you.35. Accustom yourself to a way of living thatis neat and decent without luxury.36. Avoid all things that will occasion envy.37. And be not prodigal out of season,like one who knows not what is decentand honorable.38. Be neither covetous nor stingy; a modestmeasure is