Bion of Smyrna was an ancient Greek philosopher and poet whose wisdom still resonates today. His quotes touch on life, love, and human nature with striking simplicity. If you’re looking for timeless insights, his words offer plenty to ponder.
Here’s a collection of his most thought-provoking quotes, organized by theme for easy reading.
Wisdom & Life Lessons
Bion had a sharp eye for human behavior. His words cut through the noise and get straight to the point.
🔹 “The road to Hades is easy to travel; at any rate, men pass away with their eyes shut.”
🔹 “Old age is a tyrant who forbids the pleasures of youth on pain of death.”
🔹 “Wealth is the sinews of affairs.”
🔹 “It is better to have a little than nothing.”
🔹 “Poverty is the mother of crime.”
Ever notice how people chase wealth but forget happiness? Bion reminds us that simplicity often holds more value.
Love & Relationships
Love was a recurring theme in Bion’s work. He saw its beauty—and its pitfalls.
🔹 “Love is a sweet tyranny, because the lover endures his torment willingly.”
🔹 “The love of money is the mother of all evil.”
🔹 “A lover’s soul lives in someone else’s body.”
🔹 “Jealousy is the pain of the mind, love the pleasure of the soul.”
🔹 “The wounds of love are only healed by the one who made them.”
Love can lift us up or break us down. Bion’s take? It’s worth the risk, but keep your eyes open.
Human Nature & Society
Bion didn’t shy away from pointing out flaws in human behavior. His observations still hold up.
🔹 “Men are like wine—some turn to vinegar, but the best improve with age.”
🔹 “The fool is busy in everyone’s business but his own.”
🔹 “Envy is the adversary of the fortunate.”
🔹 “The love of money is the root of all evil.”
🔹 “It is not death that a man should fear, but never beginning to live.”
Why do people envy others instead of improving themselves? Bion’s words push us to focus on what truly matters.
Humor & Wit
Bion had a dry sense of humor. His sarcasm makes his wisdom even more memorable.
🔹 “The miser is like a pig—useless while alive, and only valuable when dead.”
🔹 “A talkative man is like an unbraced drum—he makes a lot of noise but says little.”
🔹 “The donkey prefers garbage to gold.”
🔹 “A flatterer is a friend who is your inferior, or pretends to be so.”
🔹 “The thief is sorry he was caught, not that he stole.”
Ever met someone who talks too much but says nothing? Bion saw them coming from miles away.
Final Thoughts
Bion of Smyrna’s quotes pack a punch. Whether he’s talking about love, money, or human folly, his words stay relevant.
Which quote hit home for you? Maybe it’s the one about old age or the sting of envy. Either way, his wisdom is worth revisiting.
Want more ancient wisdom? Dive into other Greek philosophers—they’ve got plenty to say too.
