The Enchiridion: Handbook of Epictetus
The Enchiridion (meaning "handbook" in Greek) is a concise manual of Stoic philosophy compiled by Arrian from the teachings of Epictetus. In just 53 short chapters, it provides everything you need to begin living a philosophical life of virtue and freedom.
About the Enchiridion
The Enchiridion is a pocket-sized guide to Stoic philosophy, distilled from the longer Discourses of Epictetus. Created by his student Arrian, it was designed to be carried and consulted daily by those seeking to live philosophically.
Each chapter is short and practical, making it perfect for daily reading and reflection. This handbook has guided readers for nearly 2,000 years, from ancient Romans to modern seekers.
Quick Facts
- Compiled by: Arrian
- Source: Epictetus Discourses
- Chapters: 53 total
- Length: Very short, readable in 1 hour
- Purpose: Daily guidance
- Style: Concise and practical
Why Read the Enchiridion?
Perfect Introduction
Concise and accessible introduction to Stoic philosophy that can be read in one sitting.
Daily Guidance
Short chapters perfect for daily reading, reflection, and practical application.
Immediately Practical
Clear, actionable wisdom that can be applied immediately to daily challenges.
Essential Chapters to Read First
Start with these key chapters that capture the essence of Stoic philosophy and provide practical guidance for daily living.
What Is and Is Not Up to Us
Fundamental Principle
The foundational teaching of Stoicism - distinguishing between what we control and what we dont.
Read Chapter 1 →"Some things are up to us and some things are not."
On Being Disturbed
Emotional Resilience
How our judgments, not events themselves, create our emotional disturbance.
Read Chapter 5 →"People are not disturbed by things, but by their judgments about things."
On Expecting Too Much
Expectations
How to set appropriate expectations to avoid disappointment and suffering.
Read Chapter 8 →"Dont demand that things happen as you wish - they will happen as they do happen."
On Playing Your Role
Life Roles
Understanding and accepting the role assigned to you in the drama of life.
Read Chapter 17 →"Remember that you are an actor in a play."
On Our Duties
Social Ethics
How to understand our duties through our various relationships and roles.
Read Chapter 30 →"Our duties are universally measured by our relationships."
On Character Formation
Personal Development
Practical advice for building strong character and maintaining philosophical principles.
Read Chapter 33 →"Decide at once to stop associating with people who lead you astray."
On Never Saying You Are a Philosopher
Humility
The importance of living philosophy rather than merely talking about it.
Read Chapter 46 →"Never call yourself a philosopher, nor talk much about philosophical principles among ordinary people."
On Every Occasion
Daily Practice
The final chapter provides maxims for daily living and constant philosophical practice.
Read Chapter 53 →"On every occasion ask yourself, "What faculty should I be using now?""
Browse Chapters by Theme
Emotional Management
Social Relations
Character Development
Daily Practice
Most Famous Passages
The Foundation (Chapter 1)
"Some things are up to us and some things are not. Up to us are our faculties of judgment, motivation, desire, aversion - in short, whatever is our own doing. Not up to us are our body, our property, our reputation, our position - in short, whatever is not our own doing."
The most fundamental principle of Stoic philosophy
On Disturbance (Chapter 5)
"People are not disturbed by things, but by their judgments about things. For example, death is nothing terrible, or else it would have appeared so to Socrates; but the judgment that death is terrible, this is what is terrible."
The root of cognitive-behavioral therapy
On Life's Drama (Chapter 17)
"Remember that you are an actor in a play, which is as the playwright wants it to be; if short, then short; if long, then long; if he wants you to play a poor man, play even that role skillfully; and similarly if a cripple, or a public official, or a private citizen."
On accepting your role in life
How to Read the Enchiridion
Recommended Reading Approaches
Quick Overview
Read all 53 chapters in one sitting (1-2 hours) to get the complete picture.
Daily Practice
Read one chapter per day for reflection and practical application.
Thematic Study
Focus on specific themes and related chapters for deeper understanding.
Complete Text
All 53 Chapters Available
Access the complete Enchiridion with modern translations and detailed commentary.
Begin Your Stoic Journey
Start with the Enchiridion - your handbook for living a philosophical life of virtue and freedom.