The 128 most classic philosophical essays in the world

Chapter 51 The Dowry of Virtue

[UK] Hume
Honor is the dowry of virtue, the sweet reward of just toil, the crown of victory upon the thoughtful head of the incorruptible patriot, or the weather-beaten head of the victorious warrior.

What a relief it is when one looks within and finds that the most tumultuous passions have become right and harmonious, and that every cacophony has disappeared from the enchanting music!
Where is the reward for virtue?For which we so often pay the price of life and happiness, what does nature offer in return for this great sacrifice?O children of the earth, do you not know the majesty of the Holy Queen?Do you really want a dowry when you behold her charming figure and pure brilliance?

But we must know that nature has always been tolerant and understanding of human weaknesses.She never leaves her favored child for nothing, she offers the richest dowry to virtue, yet she is careful lest the lure of advantage interest those suitors who value the simplicity of beauty so sacred and transcendent Actually indifferent.Nature is wise enough to offer a dowry that is attractive only to those who already love virtue and desire it.Honor is the dowry of virtue, the sweet reward of just toil, the crown of victory upon the thoughtful head of the incorruptible patriot, or the weather-beaten head of the victorious warrior.The virtuous man, guided by such a most sublime reward, despises all temptations of pleasure and all threats of danger.Even death itself lost its horror when he thought that death could only have dominion over a part of him.Whether it be death or time, whether it be the violence of the forces of nature or the vicissitudes of human affairs, he is sure that he will enjoy immortal fame among the people.

There must be a Being who governs the universe, who by infinite wisdom and power brings the discordant elements into just order and proportion.Let speculative minds debate how far this benevolent being extends his concerns, and whether he should let We continue to exist after death.The virtuous man does not have to make any decisions about these ambiguous questions, he is content with the dowry that the Supreme Lord of all things has indicated to him.

He gratefully accepts the further reward that has been set up for him.He does not, however, consider virtue to be a mere name in the face of setbacks.On the contrary, it is virtue that he regards as his reward, and he delights in the magnanimity of the Creator who has given him the opportunity to live, and thus learns a most precious self-control.

Heart mark notes
Da Vinci said: "The honor of a person's virtue is infinitely greater than the honor of his wealth." A person with virtue will not only gain inner peace, but also the respect of others and the supreme dignity given by society. honor.

A person full of virtue can stand upright among all things, compete with the sun and the moon, and live endlessly.A virtuous person has infinite wisdom and strength, and can play a positive role in the development of human society.

Virtue should be the most persistent and noble pursuit in our life.

(End of this chapter)