Alexander's Speech

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Karla

Alexander's Speech

Post by Karla »

Hello All,As I had said in my previous post, I came upon this so called "Oath at Opis" that is attributed to Alexander. I guess the question is: Did it really come from Alexander himself? Or is it fictional? I did some initial research and didn't find anything convincing. Thoughts anyone? Anyway, here is goes:THE OATH OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT Translated by Dr D. Karalis "Now that the war is finished, I wish you all to live happily with the peace. All mortals from now and on will live like one nation, united for a common prosperity. You should regard the ecumenical country with common laws, which must governed by virtues, irrespective of race.I do not divide human beings as the narrow-minded people do, for in Hellenes and foreigners (barbarians). It does not interest me the origin of each citizens, neither the race that were born from. I apportion them all with only one criterion, "VIRTUE". For me, any good foreigner is a Greek, and any bad Greek is worse than a barbarian. If any difference appears amongst you, do not take refuge to weapons, but try to solve them peacefully. If need be, I will act as your negotiator.You must not consider God as authoritarian ruler, but rather as a common father for all, so that your conduct together should be like brothers in a family. From my part, I consider all equal white and brown people. Moreover, I wanted you not to be only law-abounded citizens to the state, but involving also as partners. As much as my authority permits me, I will try to materialize what I have promised. The oath that we are given ceremonially here tonight should be held as a symbol of love."
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agesilaos
Strategos (general)
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Re: Alexander's Speech

Post by agesilaos »

This is a fiction; there was a prayer at Opis which is summarised in Arrian as 'Alexander prayed for various blessings and especially that the Persians and Macedonians should enjoy harmony as partners in government.' A far cry from the Unity of Mankind ; indeed, this notice itself is suspect as Arrian is, seemingly following the Vulgate here.
When you think about, it free-choice is the only possible option.
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Manny

Re: Alexander's Speech

Post by Manny »

Ditto. A thoroughly modern sentiment. Less than 50 years old, in fact. A little New Age, a little tea, a little yoga, lotsa tofu. Universal Brotherhood my foot. I love Alexander, but he was a humongous political animal. And to this day politics remains mankind's most abominable perversion.Behold the Queen Mutha,
Manny
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