Leonardo da Vinci: 'You can have no dominion greater or less than that over yourself.'

You can have no dominion greater or less than that over yourself.

The quote by Leonardo da Vinci, "You can have no dominion greater or less than that over yourself," carries a powerful message that resonates with individuals on a personal level. It encapsulates the idea that one's ability to control and master oneself is the highest form of authority that an individual can possess. In simpler terms, the quote suggests that having power over oneself is of utmost importance, surpassing any other form of dominion.This quote emphasizes the significance of self-control, self-discipline, and the ability to govern one's thoughts, emotions, and actions. It implies that true power lies in the realm of one's own mind and the ability to harness and direct its potential. To have dominion over oneself means having the strength and determination to shape one's life and achieve personal growth and success.However, delving deeper into this quote, an unexpected philosophical concept arises – the notion of our selves being composed of different aspects or "selves," each vying for dominion over the others. This concept suggests that within each person, there exists a multiplicity of identities, desires, and perspectives, all striving for control.Often, these internal conflicts manifest as indecisiveness, self-doubt, or internal struggles between different desires and goals. For instance, one may experience a conflict between the self that seeks immediate gratification and the self that strives for long-term goals. These internal battles can hinder personal growth and make it challenging to genuinely achieve dominion over oneself.However, understanding and acknowledging these different selves can lead to self-awareness and self-acceptance. By recognizing the existence of these internal conflicts, one can take steps toward reconciliation and finding a balance between these aspects of the self. This process involves self-reflection, introspection, and the development of strategies to align these various selves towards a common purpose.By integrating these different selves and aiming for harmony and congruence, one can achieve a more profound sense of self-mastery. This notion challenges the conventional interpretation of da Vinci's quote by suggesting that one's dominion over oneself is not merely a static state but an ongoing process that requires self-exploration and self-alignment.In conclusion, Leonardo da Vinci's quote, "You can have no dominion greater or less than that over yourself," serves as a reminder of the importance of self-control and self-mastery. It elucidates the idea that true power lies in one's ability to govern oneself, overcome internal conflicts, and align the different aspects of the self towards a common purpose. By exploring the unexpected philosophical concept of the multiplicity of selves, we realize that achieving dominion over oneself is a dynamic and ongoing journey of self-awareness and self-alignment. Ultimately, embracing this concept can lead to personal growth, resilience, and a more profound sense of fulfillment in life.