Single Idea 1742

[catalogued under 29. Religion / A. Polytheistic Religion / 2. Greek Polytheism]

Full Idea

When asked whether a man who did wrong could escape the notice of the gods, Thales is said to have replied: 'No, not even if he thinks wrong.'

Gist of Idea

Thales said the gods know our wrong thoughts as well as our evil actions

Source

report of Thales (fragments/reports [c.585 BCE]) by Diogenes Laertius - Lives of Eminent Philosophers 01.Th.9

Book Reference

Diogenes Laertius: 'Diogenes Laertius', ed/tr. Yonge,C.D. [Henry G. Bohn 1853], p.19