Hesiod: 'The best is he who calls men to the best. And those who heed the call are also blessed. But worthless who call not, heed not, but rest.'

The best is he who calls men to the best. And those who heed the call are also blessed. But worthless who call not, heed not, but rest.

In his timeless poem, "Works and Days," the ancient Greek poet Hesiod imparted a profound wisdom encapsulated in the following words: "The best is he who calls men to the best. And those who heed the call are also blessed. But worthless who call not, heed not, but rest." This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of inspiring others towards goodness and excellence. It emphasizes the importance of taking action and heeding the call to pursue the best in all aspects of life. However, to delve deeper into the profound implications of this quote, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept: the existentialist view of authenticity.At a surface level, Hesiod's quote simply highlights the contrast between those who actively encourage others to pursue their best selves and those who fail to do so. It underscores the notion that those who inspire and uplift others are considered the best, while those who ignore this call and remain stagnant are indeed worthless. This straightforward interpretation prompts us to reflect upon the importance of encouraging others to reach their full potential and the blessings that come with doing so.However, when we introduce the existentialist concept of authenticity, the quote gains a more nuanced meaning. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizes individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the creation of meaning in the face of an ultimately meaningless universe. It posits that humans are in a constant state of self-definition through their choices and actions.Drawing a parallel to Hesiod's quote, we can perceive the existentialist viewpoint as suggesting that the best individuals are not only those who call others to the best but also those who authentically live according to their own highest ideals. Authenticity, in this context, means aligning one's actions, beliefs, and values with their true self, rather than conforming to societal expectations or succumbing to the pressures of external influences.By introducing the concept of authenticity, we can further explore the dynamic interplay between the individuals who call and those who heed the call. It raises intriguing questions: Can one genuinely call others to the best if they themselves are not living authentically? Does the act of answering the call require authenticity, or can it be achieved by simply following the exhortations of others?In the existentialist framework, authenticity becomes a determining factor in evaluating the impact and significance of those who issue the call. A person who is living genuinely, pursuing their own values, and continuously striving for personal growth becomes a beacon of inspiration by virtue of their own authentic existence. Their example becomes a powerful invitation for others to embark on their own journey towards self-discovery and self-actualization.In contrast, those who merely preach without embodying their own message tread on uncertain ground. Their words may inspire a fleeting motivation, but without authenticity, their impact remains limited. Authenticity lends credibility and empowers others to trust the message being conveyed, as it arises from a place of genuine experience and self-reflection.Thus, when Hesiod asserts that the best is the one who calls men to the best, he subtly emphasizes the important role authenticity plays in this process. In this light, the quote takes on an additional layer of meaning, encouraging not only the act of calling others to their best but also a deep introspection and commitment to personal authenticity.In conclusion, Hesiod's quote resonates with timeless wisdom about the importance of inspiring others to reach their highest potential. While a straightforward interpretation emphasizes the value of those who actively inspire and uplift, introducing the concept of authenticity expands our understanding. Authenticity, a fundamental tenet of existentialism, underscores the importance of living and embodying one's values in order to be truly impactful. By considering both aspects, we appreciate the profound influence that authentic individuals who call others to their best can have in creating a world where all can strive for greatness and find true blessings.