• Letter 82: On the Natural Fear of Death

  • Mar 19 2024
  • Length: 18 mins
  • Podcast
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Letter 82: On the Natural Fear of Death

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  • Summary

  • Seneca opens this letter by acknowledging the inevitability of death for all individuals. He emphasizes the importance of patiently enduring whatever challenges come our way, recognizing that it is a shared destiny we all face. When questioned about the source of his confidence, Seneca points to a deity who never deceives anyone. This divine being possesses a soul that is deeply devoted to righteousness and goodness. Seneca believes that the best part of ourselves is secure and protected. Seneca favors a life filled with hardships rather than luxury. He explains that a life of ease can make the soul weak and effeminate, whereas facing challenges and difficulties can cultivate inner strength. According to Seneca, leisure without intellectual pursuits is akin to death. Merely idling away our time is comparable to being entombed while still alive. Engaging in intellectual endeavors and striving for self-improvement is crucial for a meaningful existence. To combat fear, Seneca advises fortifying the soul with philosophy. By letting go of external attachments and gaining an understanding of the nature of oneself and the world, we can construct an impenetrable inner fortress. The reach of fortune is limited, and the soul remains invincible.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.