γνῶθι σεαυτόν
gnōthi seauton
The Greek way to say "know thyself" is γνῶθι σεαυτόν (gnōthi seauton).
This phrase is a proverb meaning to be aware of both your strengths and your limitations.
Meaning: be aware of both your strengths and limitations (proverb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative verb γνῶθι (know) and the reflexive pronoun σεαυτόν (thyself/yourself).
How does it change in a sentence?
The form σεαυτόν is the masculine accusative singular, which is the standard form used in this specific aphorism.
How do you pronounce it?
gnōthi seauton
When do people say it?
This phrase is famously associated with the Oracle of Delphi and was inscribed on the Temple of Apollo.
Did you know?
- The phrase was not just a call for introspection but a warning against 'hubris', reminding humans that they are mortal and not gods.
- In ancient Greek, the word γνῶθι is related to the root of the English word 'gnostic', referring to a special kind of intuitive or spiritual knowledge.
- Ancient Greeks often paired γνῶθι σεαυτόν with the phrase μηδέν άγαν, meaning 'nothing in excess', to create a complete ethical framework for living.
Examples in context
- Μάθε τα όριά σου, γνῶθι σεαυτόν.Mathe ta oria sou, gnothi seauton.Learn your limits, know thyself.
Example conversation
Dimitris and Kyriaki are discussing personal growth.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΠώς μπορώ να βελτιώσω τη ζωή μου;Pos boro na veltioso ti zoi mou?How can I improve my life?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΘα σου έλεγα: γνῶθι σεαυτόν, Δημήτρη.Tha sou elega: gnothi seauton, Dimitri.I would tell you: know thyself, Dimitris.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΤι σημαίνει αυτό ακριβώς;Ti simanei afto akrivos?What does that mean exactly?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝα καταλάβεις τα δυνατά και αδύναμα σημεία σου.Na katalaveis ta dinata kai adynama simeia sou.To understand your strengths and weaknesses.
