From the book
Stobaeus, Volume I
John Stobaeus · Diotimos Editions · 2026
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At a Glance
- The wordKairos is the fitting or decisive moment, distinguished from time merely passing.
- In StobaeusThe lyric fragment wishes that opportunity were as evident as it is hidden, and connects its growth with watchful care.
- In this edition“Opportunity” expresses the practical force; “opportune moment” makes its temporal aspect explicit.
- A place to beginThe hidden opportunity becomes fruitful through attentiveness.
- English renderings
- opportunity; opportune moment; critical time
Meaning
Kairos is the fitting or decisive moment, distinguished from time merely passing. Its significance depends on recognizing and using the occasion.
Use in the book
The lyric fragment wishes that opportunity were as evident as it is hidden, and connects its growth with watchful care. Opportunity is therefore something attention can help disclose or make fruitful. The saying does not present every passing moment as equally suited to action.
Places to read
- I.8.16The hidden opportunity becomes fruitful through attentiveness.
Translation in this edition
“Opportunity” expresses the practical force; “opportune moment” makes its temporal aspect explicit.
Source note
Wachsmuth, volume I, printed pp. 96. The poet is unidentified in the adopted edition; an earlier attribution to Agathon is rejected.