(45:15) This way of life, then, agrees best with our principles, and also
with general practice; therefore, if there be any question of another
plan, the plan we have mentioned is the best, and in every way to be
commended. (45:16) There is no need for me to set forth the matter more
clearly or in more detail.
Prop. [XLVI] He, who lives under the guidance of reason,
endeavours, as far as possible, to render
back love, or kindness, for other men's
hatred, anger, contempt, &c., towards him.
Proof.- (46:1) All emotions of hatred are bad ([xlv] Coroll. i.);
therefore he who lives under the guidance of reason will endeavour,
as far as possible, to avoid being assailed by, such emotions ([xix] );
consequently, he will also endeavour to prevent others being so aspect
([xxxvii] ). (46:2) But hatred is increased by being reciprocated, and
can be quenched by love (III:[xliii] ), so that hatred may pass into
love (III:[xliv] ); therefore he who lives under the guidance of
reason will endeavour to repay hatred with love, that is, with kindness.
Q.E.D.
Note.- (46:3) He who chooses to avenge wrongs with hatred is assuredly,
wretched. (4) But he, who strives to conquer hatred with love, fights
his battle in joy and confidence; he withstands many as easily as one,
and has very little need of fortune's aid. (5) Those whom he vanquishes
yield joyfully, not through failure, but through increase in their powers;
all these consequences follow so plainly from the mere definitions of
love and understanding, that I have no need to prove them in detail.
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