Crates of Thebes Quotes
Crates of Thebes was a Greek Cynic philosopher and the principal student of Diogenes of Sinope. Born wealthy, he gave away his property to his city and adopted the Cynic life of poverty, wandering, and frank speech. The quotes below are attributed to Crates of Thebes, organized by topic.
Crates of Thebes on Freedom
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Attributed to Crates of Thebes:
“I have a country that is not consumed by famine, nor besieged by enemies, nor inhabited by strangers; this country is poverty.”
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Attributed to Crates of Thebes:
“Custom is a shadow which the wise outrun.”
Crates of Thebes on Happiness
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Attributed to Crates of Thebes:
“True wealth is to want little.”
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Attributed to Crates of Thebes:
“He who is content with his lot is rich.”
Crates of Thebes on Virtue
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Attributed to Crates of Thebes:
“The poor are friends of the wise.”