Solomon Ibn Gabirol, also known as Avicebron, was a prominent Jewish philosopher and poet born in Spain around 1021. Ibn Gabirol’s philosophical writings and lyrical poetry left a significant mark on Jewish and Arabic intellectual traditions. He explored a wide range of topics, including metaphysics, ethics, and the nature of God, in his philosophical works. His poetic verses, filled with beauty and introspection, showcased his deep understanding of the human experience and the pursuit of spiritual truth. Ibn Gabirol’s profound impact extended beyond his own time, influencing later Jewish and Muslim philosophers. His intellectual contributions and literary achievements continue to be celebrated, making him an important figure in the history of medieval philosophy and poetry.
All men have one entrance into life, and the like going out.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
And when I was born, I drew in the common air, and fell upon the earth, which is of like nature; and the first voice which I uttered was crying, as all others do.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
As long as a word remains unspoken, you are its master; once you utter it, you are its slave.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
I am better able to retract what I did not say than what I did.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
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[table “121” could not be loaded /]If you want to keep something concealed from your enemy, don’t disclose it to your friend.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
A wise man’s question contains half the answer.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Many men hoard for the future husbands of their wives.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Kings may be judges of the earth, but wise men are the judges of kings.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
One is punished by the very things by which he sins.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Plan for this world as if you expect to live forever; but plan for the hereafter as if you expect to die tomorrow.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
The beginning of wisdom is to desire it.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
The test of good manners is to be patient with the bad ones.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Thou hast created me not from necessity but from grace.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Your secret is your prisoner; once you reveal it, you become its slave.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
Jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
My friend is he who will tell me my faults in private.
Solomon Ibn Gabirol
