Epictetus: 'Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire.'

Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire.

The quote by Epictetus, "Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire," encapsulates a profound truth about attaining true freedom. At first glance, it may appear counterintuitive. We often associate freedom with the ability to pursue and attain our desires. However, Epictetus challenges this notion, suggesting that true freedom lies not in the fulfillment of our desires but in our ability to control them.In its simplest interpretation, this quote suggests that the fulfillment of our desires does not bring lasting freedom. We may believe that acquiring material possessions or achieving certain goals will bring us happiness and freedom, but in reality, these external factors hold little power to determine our inner state of freedom. True freedom, according to Epictetus, is rooted in our self-mastery and ability to regulate our desires.To further delve into this concept, let us introduce the intriguing philosophical idea of Stoicism. Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that emphasizes the importance of overcoming destructive emotions and developing self-control. Epictetus himself was a Stoic philosopher, strongly influenced by Stoic principles.Stoicism teaches that true freedom is not contingent on external circumstances, but rather on the internal state of one's mind. According to Stoic teachings, the ultimate goal is to achieve "apatheia," a state of tranquility and peace, by detaching oneself from the desires and passions that can cloud judgment and disturb inner harmony.In contrast to the prevalent cultural narrative that associates freedom with the uninhibited pursuit of desires, Stoicism offers a radical perspective. It suggests that we can only attain genuine freedom when we free ourselves from the control of our desires. By recognizing that desires can be fleeting and often lead to discontentment, Stoicism encourages us to question the validity of our desires and shift our focus towards what is within our control.Epictetus' quote illuminates the importance of self-discipline and restraint in achieving true freedom. Rather than being at the mercy of our desires, we hold the power to regulate them. Through self-awareness and introspection, we can assess the validity and value of our desires, observing whether they align with our true values and contribute to our overall well-being.When we exert control over our desires, we liberate ourselves from their grasps. We become masters of ourselves, no longer driven solely by external forces but guided by our internal compass of reason and wisdom. It is through this inner freedom that we can find contentment and peace, regardless of external circumstances.In practical terms, controlling our desires requires developing habits of mindfulness and self-reflection. We can cultivate the practice of questioning our desires and investigating their origins. Are our desires fueled by societal expectations, comparison, or a genuine reflection of our values? By delving into these inquiries, we gain clarity on what truly matters to us and can make conscious choices that will foster our well-being and freedom.Epictetus' wisdom reminds us that freedom is not reliant on fulfilling every desire or achieving every external goal. Instead, it is a state of mind that can be cultivated through self-awareness, self-discipline, and the ability to regulate our desires. By embracing Stoic principles and adopting a mindset that prioritizes inner harmony and tranquility, we can transcend the limitations imposed by our desires and experience a profound sense of freedom.In conclusion, Epictetus' quote challenges our conventional understanding of freedom. It invites us to question the pervasive notion that freedom lies in the endless pursuit of desires. Instead, true freedom is procured through self-mastery and control over our desires. Stoic philosophy provides a rich framework for exploring this concept further and offers practical tools for attaining genuine freedom. By embracing self-discipline and self-reflection, we can liberate ourselves from the chains of desire and find lasting freedom within.