Seneca · c. 4 BCE – 65 CE
On Benefits 2.9 — Seneca
Translation by Aubrey Stewart (1887)
Seneca, On Benefits 2.9
Accordingly, all writers on ethical philosophy tell us that some benefits ought to be given in secret, others in public. Those things which it is glorious to receive, such as military decorations or public offices, and whatever else gains in value the more widely it is known, should be conferred in public; on the other hand, when they do not promote a man or add to his social standing, but help him when in weakness, in want, or in disgrace, they should be given silently, and so as to be known only to those who profit by them.
Cite this passage
Seneca, On Benefits 2.9, tr. Aubrey Stewart (1887)
https://whatwouldstoicsdo.com/passage/on-benefits/2.9
Seneca, Dialogues, tr. Aubrey Stewart (1887–1889). Text: Standard Ebooks (CC0). Sources and licences
In plain English
AI-written notesHonours and promotions that gain in value by being known should be given openly, but help to someone who is weak, needy or in disgrace should be given quietly, known only to those it helps. How public a kindness is should depend on what spares the receiver's dignity, not on what flatters the giver.
Older wording
- “conferred”
- — given
Themes and situations
- Kindness and forgiveness
- Pride and humility
- Reputation and others' opinions
Quote cards
The opening line of this passage as an image, with its citation — for sharing or keeping.