From the book
Stobaeus, Volume I
John Stobaeus · Diotimos Editions · 2026
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At a Glance
- The wordProphasis can be an alleged reason, occasion, or pretext.
- In StobaeusTheodectes asks the critic of delayed divine punishment to hear the reason: delay reveals character beyond behavior compelled by immediate fear.
- In this edition“Reason” is appropriate here; “pretext” belongs where an ostensible or deceptive justification is indicated.
- A place to beginA reason is offered for the delay of punishment.
- English renderings
- reason; occasion; pretext
Meaning
Prophasis can be an alleged reason, occasion, or pretext. It need not always imply a deceptive excuse.
Use in the book
Theodectes asks the critic of delayed divine punishment to hear the reason: delay reveals character beyond behavior compelled by immediate fear. Prophasis introduces the defense offered by the speaker. Translating it as pretext would prejudge that defense as insincere.
Places to read
- I.3.22A reason is offered for the delay of punishment.
Translation in this edition
“Reason” is appropriate here; “pretext” belongs where an ostensible or deceptive justification is indicated.
Source note
Wachsmuth, volume I, printed pp. 56. The explanation belongs to the quoted argument. A textually questioned word near its end does not alter the central distinction between fear and disposition.