Neither make thy friend equal to a brother; but if thou shalt have made him so, be not the first to do him wrong

Neither make thy friend equal to a brother; but if thou shalt have made him so, be not the first to do him wrong

In the works of Hesiod, an ancient Greek poet and philosopher, the concept of friendship is often explored and emphasized as a crucial aspect of human relationships. One of the most famous quotes attributed to Hesiod is “Neither make thy friend equal to a brother; but if thou shalt have made him so, be not the first to do him wrong.” This quote encapsulates the complexities and nuances of friendship, highlighting the importance of maintaining boundaries and treating friends with respect and loyalty.

The first part of the quote, “Neither make thy friend equal to a brother,” suggests that while friendship is valuable and important, it should not be equated to the bond between siblings. This is because the relationship between siblings is often seen as unconditional and unbreakable, whereas friendships can be more fluid and subject to change. By acknowledging the differences between these two types of relationships, Hesiod is cautioning against placing unrealistic expectations on friendships and expecting them to mirror the depth of familial bonds.

The second part of the quote, “but if thou shalt have made him so, be not the first to do him wrong,” emphasizes the importance of loyalty and trust in friendships. Once a friend has been elevated to the status of a brother, it is essential to treat them with the same level of respect and care that one would show to a family member. This includes being honest, supportive, and reliable in times of need, and refraining from betraying their trust or causing them harm.

Overall, Hesiod’s quote serves as a reminder of the value of true friendship and the responsibilities that come with it. By maintaining boundaries, showing respect, and upholding loyalty, individuals can cultivate strong and lasting friendships that enrich their lives and bring joy and support in times of need.