To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason.

What it means

Seneca says that if reason governs you, you will govern many. Self-command comes before any other kind. Put your impulses under your judgment before you try to lead anyone.

The source

"To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason." Seneca said it in Letters to Lucilius 37.4. Translated from the original Latin by Spartan Surfers.

"Si vis omnia tibi subicere, te subice rationi"

Original Latin, Letters to Lucilius 37.4. Text read at thelatinlibrary.com.

Who said it

Seneca (c. 4 BC–65 AD). Stoic philosopher, playwright and adviser to the emperor Nero. His letters to his friend Lucilius are the most readable handbook of Stoicism ever written.

Questions

What does "To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason." mean?

Seneca says that if reason governs you, you will govern many. Self-command comes before any other kind. Put your impulses under your judgment before you try to lead anyone.

Who said "To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason."?

Seneca (c. 4 BC–65 AD). Source: Letters to Lucilius 37.4.

What is the original Latin?

Si vis omnia tibi subicere, te subice rationi. Translated from the original Latin by Spartan Surfers.

Is "To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason." on a shirt?

Yes. We print it to order on our tees in 7 illustrated looks, from $44, with free US shipping.

"To rule everything, first rule yourself by reason." (Seneca, Letters to Lucilius 37.4, translated by Spartan Surfers). https://spartansurfers.com/quotes/to-rule-everything-first-rule-yourself-by-reason