About Delphic Maxims

The Delphic Maxims

The Delphic Maxims, also known as the Delphic Mandates, are a series of concise ancient Greek phrases, that symbolized ancient wisdom and ethical principles of that time period. These phrases were inscribed in the pronaos of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, one of the most significant religious sites of antiquity. The ancient Greeks’ admiration for these maxims displayed at the Oracle of Delphi was so great that the lyric poet Pindar (522 BC) considered the seven sages, sons of Helios, who with their radiance illuminated and guided mankind on the path of virtue.

Historical Context

The exact time period of the creation of the Delphic Maxims remains unclear, but it is a fact that they are inseparably linked with ancient Greek religion and philosophy. They represent the ethical and spiritual principles, that guided the lives and actions of the ancient Greeks.

Creation and Origin

Although it is not entirely clear when and how exactly the Delphic Maxims were created, it is widely accepted that they are connected to the worship of Apollo and the prophecies provided by the Oracle of Delphi. They are attributed to the seven Sages of ancient Greece, who were: Cleobulus of Rhodes, Solon of Athens, Thales of Miletus, Pittacus of Mytilene, Bias of Priene, Periander of Corinth, and Chilon of Sparta. Learn more about the ancient sages here.

Their Location

Delphi, one of the most important religious sites of antiquity, hosted these Maxims in a prominent place, so that every visitor of the temple could behold them. Displaying these phrases in such a central and sacred space, underscores the importance placed on ethical education and self-awareness.

The Three Foremost Maxims

Among Delphic Maxims, three Maxims stand out the most, for their deep symbolic and philosophical significance, inscribed on the front of the temple:

“Μηδέν Άγαν” (Nothing in Excess): A call for moderation and balance in every aspect of life.

“Γνώθι Σαυτόν” (Know Thyself): Encourages self-awareness and understanding of human limitations and capabilities.

“Εγγύα, Πάρα δ’ατα” (Surety Brings Ruin): A warning rule, that signifies the dangers of unchecked promises and guarantees.

Use and Influence

The Delphic Maxims were not only used in the religious context of Delphi, but had a broader application in ancient Greek society as well. They served, as guides, for ethical behaviour and self-knowledge, through simple, yet profound, phrases. The principles they contained found application in education, philosophy, politics and the daily lives of people, serving as a spiritual and ethical framework of reference.

Legacy

The legacy of the Delphic Maxims is invaluable and enduring, containing concise and focused spiritual thought, designed to inspire and assist the reader, in various aspects of his/her life. These brief phrases have withstood the test of time and continue to inspire discussions and searches for ethics, philosophy and self-improvement, up to this day.

Dissemination

The dissemination of the Delphic Maxims through our website and application aims to connect all individuals, regardless of age and life stage, with these ancient sources of true wisdom, serving as a means for the visitors of our platform to explore the spiritual depth of the Delphic Maxims.