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About this quote

What does it mean?
A soul united with virtue is like a pure, ever‑flowing source that harms none.
In plain terms
Virtue makes the soul a harmless, generous wellspring.
What can you take from it?
Cultivate virtue to become a positive, sustaining influence.

Where it applies

  • personal development
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • practice ethical habits
  • share resources generously

Questions to consider

  • How does virtue affect your daily interactions?
  • Can a virtuous person still cause harm?

Another view

Virtue alone may not protect against external harms.

More from Epictetus

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  3. It is hard to combine and unite these two qualities, the carefulness of one who is affected by circumstances, and the intrepidity of one who heeds them not. Bu…

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