Some (as xxi.,
xxiv., above) bear the stamp of Pythagorean origin; others, though
changed in form, may well be based upon Epictetean sayings. Most have
been preserved in the Anthology of John of Stobi (Stobaeus), a Byzantine
collector, of whom scarcely anything is known but that he probably wrote
towards the end of the fifth century, and made his vast body of
extracts from more than five hundred authors for his son's use. The
best examination of the authenticity of the Fragments is Quaestiones
Epicteteae, by R. Asmus, 1888. The above selection includes some of
doubtful origin but intrinsic interest.--Crossley.
(APPENDIX B)
The Hymn of Cleanthes
Chiefest glory of deathless Gods, Almighty for ever,
Sovereign of Nature that rulest by law, what Name shall we
give Thee?--
Blessed be Thou! for on Thee should call all things that are
mortal.
For that we are Thine offspring; nay, all that in myriad motion
Lives for its day on the earth bears one impress--Thy
likeness--upon it.
Wherefore my song is of Thee, and I hymn thy power for ever.
Lo, the vast orb of the Worlds, round the Earth evermore as it
rolleth,
Feels Thee its Ruler and Guide, and owns Thy lordship rejoicing.
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