When you are strong, do not boast

Cleobulus, known for his inventiveness, served as the tyrant of Lindos, on the island of Rhodes. He emerged as one of the most luminous figures of antiquity and was included in the circle of the Seven Sages. His life began around 630 BC and ended around 560 BC, an age relatively long for that era, with his years spanning a time of great changes and cultural flourishing.

In his personal life, Cleobulus was married and the father of Cleobulina, a young woman noted for the riddles she composed, indicating that the family’s wisdom was not limited to the father alone.

Coming from a royal lineage and claiming descent from Hercules, Cleobulus travelled, in his youth, to Egypt, where he was taught philosophy, by the mystic priests, enriching his wisdom and knowledge.

Political and Cultural Legacy

His reign coincided with that of other great figures, such as Periander and Solon. As a ruler, he played a pivotal role in the political transition of Lindos, towards more liberal and democratic structures.

Regarding his political and cultural contribution, Cleobulus restored significant works of infrastructure and religious worship in Lindos, while the cultural peak, during his reign, left an indelible mark on history.

Poetic Dimension

His poetic discourse, consisting of songs and riddles, totalling some 3,000 verses, reveals the depth of his thought, with his aphorism: “μέτρον ἄριστον” (moderation is best), counted among the most famous ancient Greek sayings, exemplifying the character of the Greek spirit.

Also, attributed to him, is the following riddle:

“One father, twelve sons. Each of them has twice thirty daughters;

Half are white, the others black;

Immortal they are, yet they all end.”

The solution to this is: “time,” as time has twelve months, and each month has thirty days and thirty nights. The days follow one after the other. As one dies, it gives birth to another, and so on.

Legacy

The legacy of Cleobulus is kept alive, through his tomb in Lindos, where an epigrammatic dedication reminds us of his invaluable contribution to cultural and spiritual heritage. Cleobulus remains a luminous figure of the Greek spirit, serving as a source of inspiration and wisdom.