Sophrosyne

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This article is about the Greek virtue. For the asteroid, see 134 Sophrosyne.

Sophrosyne (σοφροσύνη) is a Greek philosophical term etymologically meaning 'moral sanity' and from there 'self control' or 'moderation'.

Greeks upheld the ideal of sophrosyne, which means wisdom and moderation but ultimately its complex meaning, so important to the Ancients, is very difficult to convey in English. It is perhaps best expressed by the two most famous sayings of the oracle at Delphi: "Nothing in excess", and "Know thyself".

The term suggests a happiness obtained when one's philosophical needs are satisfied, resembling the idea of enlightenment through harmonious living. It is a nearly lost Classical ideal, but enjoying some revival today with its emphasis on individuals to live within the proportions of reason and nature, this being achieved through wisdom and self knowledge.

The word is found in the writings of Ancient Greece, especially that of Plato in ethical discussions of the dialogue Charmides where it refers to the avoidance of excess in daily life. This term in Plato's use is connected with the Pythagorean idea of harmonia.

In the Christian theology, especially in the Greek Orthodox patristic, the word Sophrosyne has come to mean 'purity', 'integrity' and 'virginity'.

Examples of this term often appear in Greek literature as well. See the character of Deianeira in Trachinian Women by Sophocles or Achilles in The Iliad when Agamemnon decides to take Briseis.