Apollonius of Tyana: 'I asked questions when I was a stripling, and it is not my business to ask questions now, but to teach people what I have discovered.'

I asked questions when I was a stripling, and it is not my business to ask questions now, but to teach people what I have discovered.

Apollonius of Tyana, a philosopher of ancient times, once said, "I asked questions when I was a stripling, and it is not my business to ask questions now, but to teach people what I have discovered." This quote captures a fundamental shift in mindset as one transitions from a curious youth to a knowledgeable adult. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom and then sharing it with others. Apollonius suggests that once we have discovered answers to our questions, our role shifts from being inquisitive to becoming teachers. While this perspective may seem logical and practical, it is worth exploring an unexpected philosophical concept that challenges this notion - the concept of eternal curiosity.Eternal curiosity is an idea rooted in the belief that the quest for knowledge should be an ongoing and never-ending journey. It contends that regardless of age or level of expertise, one should continue to ask questions and seek new understanding. Contrastingly, Apollonius' quote implies that there comes a moment when questioning should cease, and the focus should shift solely towards teaching others.Apollonius' perspective resonates with the conventional notion of intellectual growth and progression. As children, we are naturally curious beings, perpetually seeking answers and questioning everything around us. However, as we mature, we often find ourselves acquiring knowledge in various fields of interest. This accumulation of wisdom can lead us to a point where we feel confident enough to pass on our knowledge to others. Apollonius highlights a transition from the role of the curious learner to that of the knowledgeable teacher.Nonetheless, the concept of eternal curiosity challenges this transition by suggesting that there is immense value in continuing to question even after we have obtained knowledge. It argues that the act of questioning enriches our minds, fuels our intellectual growth, and expands our understanding of the world around us. By being open to new perspectives and constantly seeking further knowledge, we maintain a mindset of perpetual curiosity.One might argue that Apollonius' quote promotes the continued dissemination of learned knowledge, ensuring that the wisdom acquired is not lost to time. However, the concept of eternal curiosity suggests that knowledge constantly evolves, and what may have been true and comprehensive yesterday may not hold the same weight today. By questioning, we stay relevant, adaptable, and able to offer new insights to those seeking knowledge.In this philosophical debate between Apollonius' perspective and the notion of eternal curiosity, there is no right or wrong answer. Both viewpoints have their merits, and it is up to individuals to determine where they stand in their pursuit of knowledge. Some may find solace in Apollonius' belief that teaching what we have discovered is a valuable contribution to society, while others may find inspiration in the never-ending exploration and curiosity of eternal seekers.Ultimately, Apollonius' quote and the concept of eternal curiosity underline the constant interplay between learning, questioning, and teaching. As we grow and acquire knowledge, it is important to strike a balance between sharing what we have learned and maintaining a mindset of eternal curiosity. Both aspects are essential for personal and collective growth, ensuring that wisdom is passed on while continuously expanding our understanding of the world. So, let us embrace the wisdom we have gained and remain ever-curious, allowing our thirst for knowledge and enlightenment to shape both our journey and the journeys of those we encounter along the way.