Harm may be inevitable... But We Have an Alternative Option
In an intriguing turn of events, the renowned Stoic philosopher Epictetus found himself a victim of theft, with an iron lamp stolen from his front hallway. However, instead of succumbing to anger or despair, Epictetus responded with calmness and humour, reflecting the very teachings he espoused.
The theft served as a poignant reminder for Epictetus that we do not truly possess anything, a concept central to Stoic philosophy. Epictetus believed that external goods like property are indifferent and do not define our happiness or virtue. What truly matters is one's character and rational judgment.
In this instance, Epictetus did not express any signs of distress or anger about the stolen lamp. Instead, he chose the "handle" of acceptance and rational response, a key Stoic metaphor that encourages the wise person to endure rather than be overwhelmed by adversity.
In the face of the theft, Epictetus demonstrated the practical Stoic mindset he advocated, focusing on his own virtue and reason rather than external circumstances. He replaced the stolen lamp with an earthenware one and, in a wise and philosophical remark, said, "Tomorrow, you will find an earthenware lamp; for a man can only lose what he has."
This response could have been reminiscent of the bishop's response in Les Mis, encouraging the thief to become an honest man. Epictetus saw the situation as an opportunity to be merciful, forgive, and try to make the other person better. He did not mention the intention of pressing charges against the thief, instead choosing to view the theft as a reminder about the transient nature of possession and the potential for human beings to do unvirtuous things out of desperation or greed.
In essence, Epictetus's response to the theft underscores the Stoic path to freedom from distress caused by theft: focusing on what is within one’s control (one’s own responses and actions) rather than external circumstances. This approach emphasizes the power to choose how to carry the burden of any event, including theft, by focusing on one’s own virtue and reason rather than external circumstances.
Epictetus, in the face of the theft, embraced the Stoic philosophy he advocated, viewing it as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of possessions and the importance of personal growth over material goods. His calm response, replacing the stolen lamp with an earthenware one, reflected his belief that true happiness and virtue come from within, not from external circumstances.
