Item 1 in Epicurean Tetrapharmakos
The Gods Are Not to Be Feared
Do not live in anxiety that divine beings constantly punish or intervene in human life.
- Position
- 1
- Form
- Mixed formulation
- Obligation
- Aspirational
- Wording status
- Editorial paraphrase
- Intended audience
- Students and practitioners of Epicurean philosophy
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2026
Names and terminology
Canonical name: The Gods Are Not to Be Feared
Source wording
Editorial paraphrase: Do not live in anxiety that divine beings constantly punish or intervene in human life.
Literal meaning
Do not live in anxiety that divine beings constantly punish or intervene in human life.
Broader interpretation
This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.
Historical context
This item belongs to Epicurean Tetrapharmakos. Later Hellenistic Epicurean tradition; Ancient Greek and Roman world.
Practical meaning
Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.
Ethical purpose
To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.
Exceptions and disputes
The claim depends on Epicurean theology and cannot be established merely by therapeutic usefulness.
Variations across schools or traditions
Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.
Modern application
Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.
Criticism and difficult cases
The claim depends on Epicurean theology and cannot be established merely by therapeutic usefulness.
Truth By Reason analysis
Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.
Ethical themes
Sources
- Philodemus of Gadara Academic / peer reviewed