Author

Ptahhotep Quotes

Ancient Egyptian vizier of the 25th century BCE. The Maxims of Ptahhotep is one of the oldest surviving works of moral instruction.

9 sourced quotes from Ptahhotep across Maat.

“Maat is great and its effectiveness lasting. It has not been disturbed since the day of its creation.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · c. 2400 BCE · the oldest book in the world Maat

“If you find yourself in a position of authority, be courteous. The mouth of a wise man counsels and ennobles.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · maxim on authority Maat

“Do not be proud of your knowledge. Take counsel with the ignorant as well as the wise. The limits of skill cannot be reached. No one is fully equipped with the skill at his fingertips.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · maxim on humility Maat

“Hearken to your wife. Make her happy as long as you live. She is a fertile field for her lord. Do not contend with her in court.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · maxim on partnership Maat

“Conceal your heart, control your mouth. Then your counsels will be among the magistrates. The truly silent man stands in the truth of his own measure.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · maxim on restraint of speech Maat

“Greed is a grievous sickness, of which there is no remedy. There is no relief for it. It is the destroyer of friends.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · maxim on greed Maat

“Speak truth, do truth, for it is great. It is mighty. It endures. Maat is its name.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · the central maxim Maat

“A good listener is half a good speaker.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · on listening Maat

“Pleasant is the speech of him who hears.”

Maxims of Ptahhotep · on the value of hearing Maat