They [the Persians] are accustomed to deliberate on matters of the highest moment when warm with wine; but whatever they in this situation may determine is again proposed to them on the morrow, in their cooler moments, by the person in whose house they had before assembled. If at this time also it meet their approbation, it is executed; otherwise it is rejected. Whatever also they discuss when sober, is always a second time examined after they have been drinking.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of reflection and careful decision-making over impulsive actions, particularly influenced by emotions like intoxication.
Herodotus highlights a cultural practice among the Persians where significant decisions are made in a state of inebriation but are revisited and evaluated when sober. This practice underscores the value of reflection and the necessity of distinguishing between temporary emotions and rational thought before finalizing any important decisions.
In practice
This quote could be used in a discussion about cultural practices in decision-making.
The Scythians take kannabis seed, creep in under the felts, and throw it on the red-hot stones. It smolders and sends up such billows of steam-smoke that no Greek vapor bath can surpass it. The Scythians howl with joy in these vapor-baths, which serve them instead of bathing, for they never wash their bodies with water.
The man who has planned badly, if fortune is on his side, may have had a stroke of luck; but his plan was a bad one nonetheless.
Men trust their ears less than their eyes.
Great deeds are usually wrought at great risks.
The worst pain a man can have is to know much and be impotent to act.
All men's gains are the fruit of venturing.
Mirrors should reflect before sending an image.
How can we know ourselves? Never by reflection, but only through action. Begin at once to do your duty and immediately you will know what is inside you.
I tend to feel if people say they're going to do something, they will, if given the chance.
Sometimes during solitude I hear truth spoken with clarity and freshness; uncolored and untranslated it speaks from within myself in a language original but inarticulate, heard only with the soul, and I realize I brought it with me, was never taught it nor can I efficiently teach it to another.
The unending paradox is that we do learn through pain.
Put first things first and we get second things thrown in: put second things first & we lose both first and second things.
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