'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius - The Complete 12 Books on Stoicism in Today's Language

Delve deep into the mind of one of ancient Rome's greatest emperors, Marcus Aurelius, with this modernized version of his rich text, 'Meditations.' In this reflective journey, we unravel the Stoic philosophy deeply ingrained in the Emperor's personal contemplations, transforming ancient thought into a beacon for contemporary souls.
'Meditations' is believed to have originally been Marcus Aurelius's personal journal, a space where he documented his philosophical reflections and observations guided by stoic principles. It was not intended for public eyes; it was a tool of self-reflection, a way for the emperor to reinforce and revisit the stoic principles that guided his leadership and personal growth.
Despite the repetitive nature of the work, owing to its background as a personal diary, it holds priceless nuggets of wisdom that resonate profoundly, even today. Through its introspective lens, Marcus Aurelius offers timeless advice on coping with life's challenges, grounding oneself through rationality, and aspiring towards virtuous living.
Whether you approach it as a historical lens into ancient Rome and Stoic philosophy or a meditative guide to navigating modern life's complex terrains, 'Meditations' holds something special for everyone. While this modernized version preserves the raw, honest, and thoughtful essence of the original work, it makes the text more accessible, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary life.
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A great thank you to @Say_When, @seanjustg5425, and Paul C for supporting this channel!
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro and setting the scene
1:31 Book 1: Gratitude and Reflections
8:06 Book 2: Guiding Principles
14:40 Book 3: Appreciating Life and Nature's Nuances
22:04 Book 4: Finding Inner Tranquility
34:17 Book 5: A Guide to Everyday Living
45:20 Book 6: Navigating the Universe
57:23 Book 7: Interconnected Reality
01:09:39 Book 8: Finding One's True Path
01:21:00 Book 9: Living Authentically in a Complex World
01:30:04 Book 10: Finding Balance in Being
01:39:37 Book 11: Discovering Your True Self
01:49:32 Book 12: Embracing the Now
01:55:47 Outtro
#MarcusAurelius #Meditations #StoicPhilosophy #AncientWisdomModernized #RomanPhilosophy #Stoicism #HistoricalTexts #PhilosophicalMeditations #AncientRome #PersonalGrowth #SelfReflection #MindfulLiving #HistoricalInsights #RomanEmperor #WisdomForToday #PhilosophyForLife #MeditativeGuide #AncientTextsModernized #StoicWisdom #StoicMeditations #LifeGuidance #MarcusAureliusMeditations #KZbinHistory #KZbinPhilosophy #Audiobook

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Friends! Many of you have been asking for a printed version, so I took your feedback to heart. I'm thrilled to announce that the book is now available: www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2J9FW7R Just like the video, this isn't just an ancient text dusted off the shelf. I've kept it crisp and clear, polishing the text a bit and cutting down on the "bro speak" without compromising the contemporary language that made the video so popular. Whether you're already deeply into Stoicism or just curious, this book is your gateway to exploring timeless Stoic wisdom-perfect for anyone seeking peace in our chaotic world.

[@lotusmelody8579]

If you happen to read this keep going... You have the strength to overcome any obstacle. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself. Your journey will lead you to a brighter tomorrow! 🦋🦋🦋

[@gitstanfield2863]

I cried like a baby at myself. Im trying but its so hard

[@ghassanalburati7560]

❤

[@michaelking2910]

Gay

[@JG-yp6pt]

Thank you. That is very kind and helpful.

[@JG-yp6pt]

@@gitstanfield2863don't give up. Darkest before the dawn.

[@MightyAmygdala]

27:33 "The universe has it's rhythm, and im vibin' with it" - Marcus Aurelius

[@kalynkilgore9164]

The lingo....

[@ZhiyanPelle]

😂😂😂😂

[@jacobmorales1563]

@@kalynkilgore9164it’s very natural, like if you were writing to yourself in a journal. I listened to the 18th century translation, and it’s good, but just doesn’t flow. But Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet read and played like a movie to the viewers of their time, the translation would sound like this one does to us to them too. But to me it’s like listening to, well, Shakespeare lol

[@user-vb8zr7di1x]

lol at first I didn't quite catch on this was a modern rendition of the book, and when he said that, I was like wait a minute and had to look at the description to see its modernized.

[@northstarmn]

😂 defiantly not said by Marcus aralias

[@TankDempsee]

i’m listening at .75 speed and it’s much easier to follow, if anyone reading also thinks he’s going a bit fast lol

[@RickyyyM.]

Wow, thanks to you, I never knew you could adjust the speed of a video

[@louissurkin1280]

Interesting. I can't listen or follow unless its 2x and then pause every now and then to reflect. To each their own.

[@jerryharanczyk]

it was too slow for me , had to speed it up and then it clicked

[@investornabil8825]

It's wayyyyy too fast true. Even 0.75 is too fast, but a lot better. People who listen at 2x aren't learning much, probably nothing. They lack humility.

[@user-ui8ii8uh8n]

Thanks!!!

[@acuteangina705]

"He showed mad love and respect" Marcus Aurelius - The O. OG

[@smimissues8915]

Marcus, uncredited jive brother from airplane.

[@LLUrbanAchiever]

It was at this part that I abandoned this silly interpretation in favor of the traditional translation.

[@LLUrbanAchiever]

@@smimissues8915😂

[@tiptopcharlie]

What stands in the way becomes the way@@LLUrbanAchiever

[@user-zz8xc2ml3x]

@@LLUrbanAchieversame 😭

[@pervertricojoe8970]

This version uses a lot of modern words. I would not have been surprised if there was a “Trust me Bro!” thrown in there.😂😂😂

[@lots774]

You do the world a great service with these videos. I was dissapointed at first hearing you say, "chill" but then I realized you are speaking to those who need this most and I admire that. Bravo to You Sir, Bravo to You!!

[@ThatMartinezGuy]

I appreciate the videos and the amusing reinterpretation. I just wanted to to let you know that this is AI generated speech. You mentioned “you say”. The uploader is not the voice you are hearing. No shade on the uploader’s work.

[@alaabu508]

Same I was confused with the choices of words 😅

[@chrismanley5656]

Have another read of your comment and consider it from your core principles.

[@riazr88]

IMO opinion this is the best translation. I listen to the whole book almost everyday. A true masterpiece.

[@AXharoth]

thats isnane lol

[@Daniel-us8vk]

@@AXharothwhy

[@AXharoth]

same book everyday thats why! xD@@Daniel-us8vk

[@InTheworld247]

@@AXharoth100% guarantee it’s better than 99% of what people listen to. But tbh, I’d agree that’s insane self discipline.

[@AXharoth]

idc if its better or worse , its still insane to me@@InTheworld247

[@LuisFuentes-xd4yz]

I love how the man who thought of himself as “a man who would be forgotten” is still to this day being remembered. Way to go Marcus. Great job. The universe indeed smiled at you… And you? You smiled back

[@liamsmith8964]

Love this comment so true 👍

[@Citizen_of_the_Kingdom]

Gotta love the way God works lol

[@cgarcia4487]

Nice spin on the Aurelius quote “Death smiles at us all. All we can do is smile back.”

[@ProdByP209]

I think you missed the point of what he was saying. Yeah we still remember him 2000 years later, but in the big picture thats nothing. There will still be a point in time at which not a single person remembers him. He didnt say he wouldnt be remembered, just that nobody will be remembered forever

[@LuisFuentes-xd4yz]

@@ProdByP209 completely agree my friend! Just saying it’s ironic how he is still being remembered for how he was not even trying to haha

[@jasonbwaljones]

You found your calling, your voice brings life to these stories and meditations

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Wow, thank you, brother!

[@claires9100]

I put the play back speed to 75% . Then i can enjoy the thoughts just a bit more calmly.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

​@@claires9100 In notifications I can see you added a second comment - and read half of it. But when clicking though to the actual comment, it's not visible. That seems to happen fairly often for some reason. Anyway, I'm sure women can also benefit from stoicism 🙂

[@whogottherico4989]

I recently got out of a relationship and realized how dependent I was on that person. This period of growth in my life has been incredibly eye-opening. I’m starting to feel mentally stronger, affecting my everyday life. I’m happy being right where I am.

[@lonnawarden4334]

Good for you! I’ve been out of a toxic relationship for five years now. The best thing I could do for myself is to leave that relationship.👏

[@ArturoGarzaID]

Why did it end?

[@nimanassiri3969]

Brother, please, for your own self development - join a gym. Godspeed.

[@whogottherico4989]

@@ArturoGarzaID it was mutual in the end. I think I stopped chasing my personal growth for the growth of the relationship. When I’m single I’m my best self and when I’m in a relationship I put myself on the back burner for the relationship. Something I’m working through.

[@whogottherico4989]

@@nimanassiri3969 Just got my gym membership back a week ago. Absolute game changer 🤝

[@Bboy10011]

This shits wild, stuff that has just been brewing in my head for years, I'm crying right now because of how close this is to what I've been telling myself, I knew little stoicism from just from what little I've looked into it, I was about 22 or 23 when I first heard about it and was blown away at how similar it was to how I was already feeling and thinking, and now being 25 trying and going down this rabbit hole and now hearing this and have it be exactly like what I've been telling myself for the past 2 years makes me cry in happiness, thank you.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Thank you, brother. Responses like yours makes it well worth the effort 🤝

[@Bboy10011]

To add on to this. Currently I have alot going on, between work, home life, my band and passion and a possibility of love right around the corner, I'm currently laying in bed trying to take in the peace, and just got to the 35:20ish mark and was told to get out of bed and go for my passion, I am about to get up and have a meeting with my band to discuss our future. Wish me luck because I know my journey has just begun, take it easy and I hope you have a good experience ❤

[@TheLegendaryLore]

​@@Bboy10011Good luck pursuing your passion! I quit my job back in 2020 to do something more meaningful, and while the pay is much less, I never regretted it for a single second. Where can one listen to your music?

[@Bboy10011]

My band is called The Helpers and we post all of our practices on our KZbin (: but I have some solo demos out everywhere under my name Bryce Schramm.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

@@Bboy10011 I'll check it out. Good luck living your passion, brother!

[@user-pm3sh9gr5h]

This has made these important life lessons so easy to listen to and understand, a true gift to any of us fortunate enough to happen across these teachings, many thanks ❤

[@fatimalara9787]

He did not say MVP NEXT

[@Ldogthe1nonly]

This is my favourite audio book done, ever. I think I listen to it everyday now, I hope I can quote it like a monologue one day

[@siugishao]

This is the best life advice I’ve ever heard!

[@GardenGnome11]

Thank you for taking the time to share this video 🙂

[@marcussparticus8380]

To modern for my liking, I'm sure he never said ( I'm super excited) in a very American way. The tempo is to fast, sounds like you can't get it over with quickly enough.

[@unclebrutha9018]

Hearing M.A.’s Meditations in “modern” language MAY just help with grasping the true essence behind their publication. He was clearly unconcerned with the opinions of others especially when they didn’t contribute to the greater good of society. If the tempo is too fast, try listening at .75X speed.

[@AnthonyBolognese710]

Just want you to know that this is part of my daily digest. Thank you. This is the most concise narration I’ve seen.

[@MindfulExplorations-op7bg]

This is one of the most valuable videos I've ever seen. Will listen to this again and again ❤❤❤❤

[@AlexanderDuncann]

Wow, a complete collection in one video! We truly appreciate all your hard work on this one. Thank you!

[@TheLegendaryLore]

I'm happy you enjoyed it, brother!

[@davidstar2362]

Yes Yes Yes WONDERFUL WORKS!!

[@ld5stareagle521]

❤❤❤yes yes yes your Method of your philosophy is great this the great philosophy for being success to become a self consciousness and master. Discipline is number one success , Dertermination, and your volontary..... this a quality of being a positive master having those philosophy meditation, only one thing your works are value and appreciate this good knowledge Good energy good sunrise❤❤❤❤ I appreciate your talent your imagination to put all this audio work together it's amazing and share all pieces to become a master peace. LD5STAREAGLE Eternally peace respect. Peace traveler.

[@mamodugno]

My friend, this work is fantastic, but don't be offended if I tell you that you should have a professional actor read these wonderful sentences, not you. A true actor is able to make the meaning of sentences and emotions penetrate. The unprofessional way you read is the same way anyone might read the telephone book. The beauty of those verses does not reach the listener. Nothing arrives. Please listen to me. Peace ✌️

[@Cuckoo_Lane]

@@mamodugnoI thought this was ChatGPT.

[@Planet-Pantera]

I’ve only just heard of this book two days ago. I watched a movie called “Act Of Vengeance” starring Antonio Banderas and he uses quotes in the movie. This is exactly what I need in my life. I’ve always felt I’ve been searching for something without knowing it, and I think this is what it is.

[@Gh0stWhee1]

Another incredible video. I was hoping you would adapt Meditations for this format, and am glad to see you have. Thank you for the work you do brother, you are appreciated.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Thank you so much for your support, brother!

[@constantlyfabulous]

Bb 😊has 😊😊04😊40's

[@constantlyfabulous]

😊😊😊😊😊😊😊m😊😊😊😊mommy mammal mommy mommy knowing 9n9n9n9n😊

[@billpreston8478]

I am so grateful for KZbin and the people who put this sort of thing together making wisdom that many men before me may not have ever come into contact with or who labored vigorously to find it and now I have instant access to this priceless wisdom ....whoa..

[@dailyphilo]

If you happen to come across this, please keep going. You have the strength to overcome any obstacle. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself. Your journey will lead you to a brighter tomorrow!

[@nickifiresnow1931]

Love the modern terms in this translation, it adds something more for me. Thank you. ❤

[@roderickvalletta7876]

Brilliant! Should be played in schools!!

[@ramoesgaston9966]

This is profound and I don't why I never found this before.

[@tracycartwright978]

I love watching your videos, a lot of the things you have said, i adhere to and strive to be a better person each day as everyone has their flaws. Thank you, this makes me feel loads better. ❤

[@galt67]

I’ve listened to the conventional translation of this BUT this more impactful. It feels more relatable and engaging. Thank you for the outstanding work!

[@randomocitystudios5046]

I was bothered by the modern slang at first, but I agree that it's much better than what was written verbatim 2,000 years ago.

[@mp7140]

I'm so glad I listen this meditation 🙏

[@just_a_guy10]

I can’t control the number of ads every other minute so I’ll just enjoy the ads

[@wmalgal]

This is superb! Well done -- this easy to understand version of ancient wisdom is much needed in todays world.

[@lava48]

Wow, just WOW! I’ve heard many philosophical, spiritual, religious, positive motivational messages. But this one encompasses all of it. Practical life instructions to live by. 🙏🏼

[@stephaniedespatie2954]

I love the adaptation with today's version! It's a great idea, and I love listening to this version every morning

[@TheLegendaryLore]

That sounds like a great morning routine!

[@steventhepig3173]

🙏🏿

[@MrFenixxx2fenixxx]

Where can I see the text version? I am learning English. I would like to see punctuation marks in the subtitles

[@TheLegendaryLore]

@@MrFenixxx2fenixxx Yeah, KZbin's automatic subtitles are not the greatest. I'm publishing the full text in book format through Amazon very soon. Still working out a few kinks.

[@MrFenixxx2fenixxx]

@@TheLegendaryLore how much will this book cost?

[@bernyg6940]

Your modernisation of the wording has been a pleasure to listen to. You’ve ignited my journey , as your video is instantly understandable and relevant… hooked from the get go. Thank you 🙏

[@mayolasbones6831]

I agree, this is amazing.

[@theresatn000]

Honestly this story the best simple book overall ~ words humanity must be known it’s a beauty!

[@getuliooliveira9695]

Thank you, sir, for taking your time and putting this up for us! Wonderful job!

[@JCarlos.556]

_Anger management sessions were useless. This video gave me way more insight. Thank you_

[@miharuka7408]

LOVE THE THUMBNAIL! Thank you for sharing!

[@juliuso3885]

Thank you for this wonderful piece. It is a life changing challenge to us all.

[@antonellarosa1496]

This is so good. Thank you. ❤

[@Barcelona71428]

I’ve been getting into the groove of listening to audio books to help me sleep. Listened to the art of war last night. Definitely doing this one tonight.

[@andielee87]

This needs to be heard by everyone🎉

[@elyarkhalili5946]

This video changed my life. Thank you for this.

[@aimeemariefournier1013]

I love that I can clearly understand this translation it’s understandable and relatable. It is ironic because Marcus thought he was a speck in the grand scheme yet we still need and relate unlike many other stoics and philosophers

[@Cuckoo_Lane]

It’s not ironic at all. Humility is a key piece.

[@Vahe345]

man you did such a good job, i've read this book but this is just pure fast easily understandable wisdom!

[@danholmes3239]

Pure Gold .Thankyou

[@Fauxrising2022]

Thank you for creating this! So many helpful solutions to life’s problems or our interpretation. This is going to be my daily listening and hopefully one day I will live every actions by these principles. Also I love the artwork and photos included!

[@pavelignatov7303]

Thank you!!!It's priceless!

[@analiebasa5002]

Thank you for this practical audio journey.. it's been 44 years of existence I've come across..

[@Detective_Jay]

This adaptation is legendary!

[@LifeofFana]

Thank you for this!

[@anthonyc3306]

I just want to say thank you for making this. I hope your channel blows up so you can keep making all this wisdom so easy to understand.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Thank you, friend. I hope so too :)

[@MarkSalner1]

Best find on KZbin 💯🫶 Thank You 🙏

[@dwivediready9146]

I would’ve appreciated hearing this when I was 16 but that was about 16 tears ago 😅 Would’ve gained me 16 years of advice I ABSOLUTELY NEEDED ❤🙏🏼✊🏼

[@scottdevlin1491]

Thanks for posting this!

[@illmonkarias1344]

This is amazing, Thanks. I listened complete yesterday. I am planning to listening once in a while.

[@xG_MANx]

I know this comment is late mate, but thanks to your modernised videos of the greatest thinkers of the past and bringing their philosophy to the present, I started my own journey into stoicism and I finally got the book itself and so far…it’s not easy to understand and decode I will tell ya that!😁 But thanks to your video I’m able to get a grasp on it and make comparisons. Still reading it tho and taking my time but I want to say to you personally mate, if it wasn’t for your socrates video, I would never have re-started my journey into photography again and for that I thank you massively. I’m on an enlightened path now, already making a list of books to get to add ti my small library.

[@shaneplasse7979]

Thank you!!!! This is the absolute best audio book ever done. Putting it in everyday language was genius. This will be on a continuous loop for the foreseeable future

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Wow, thank you, brother!

[@JAC42lafc]

🙏Epic translation!!

[@deanal-tawil8569]

Bought meditations a few years back and have been re-reading it ever since. Thank you for making an amazing book more comprehensible!

[@randomfellow1483]

Is the text ancient English?

[@keddesmart125]

Thank you so much for this very well executed modern version of Meditations. Job well done without butchering the original content. Subbed, loved and shared.!!

[@Red23165]

Thanks brother watch you every day especially at the gym I listen while I work out 🏋️‍♂️ ❤ 😊

[@BaldwinFanonGarveyTureShakurX]

19:30 - 21:19 has been a personal test of mine recently. I was saying this to myself without having ever watched this video, so I know I'm on the right track. Keeping your core value at the forefront when dealing with ppl who have no values is exhausting, but must be persevered without giving an to the temptation to lower yourself to their level.

[@anjalipandey2281]

This video is mind blowing! So much knowledge ....Awesome! Thank you reader of the book.

[@sidneymorris2254]

Wow! Listening to this whilst driver. Very good. You make it sound more alive. Thanks 👍 ❤

[@Med_Ayou]

THIS MADE ME CRY

[@gaurav007jadhav]

Thank you sir !

[@burgaweddie1]

I am on my third time listening to the complete 2 hours. Just wow!

[@sweetsanity100]

Thank you for this amazing collection ❤️

[@merchernel123]

This was really great and exactly what I needed to hear right now. I thank you.

[@user-og9ls6iy8s]

This video truly captures the essence of Marcus Aurelius' timeless wisdom, bringing his profound insights into the modern world with such clarity. It's a reminder that the wisdom of the Stoics continues to guide us in navigating life's challenges. As Marcus once said, "The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best." This video and the Stoic philosophy it embodies are precisely the kind of uplifting company we all need in our lives. Thank you for sharing this gem! 🌟🧘‍♂

[@leogarduque]

🙏🙏🙏 👁️👁️ ❤️❤️❤️ ⚖️

[@NeoSoulquarian]

Loving this translation! 🔥❤️

[@minterproperties7146]

Excellent job, Thanks for sharing

[@everlastingbreatharian286]

Thank you for this video.

[@brahamjitsinghgill5858]

Thank you ❤

[@leroyjenkinz9791]

I was told at a young age that I was stoic,at the time not knowing what stoicism was. I listen to stoicism every day now trying to engrain it to every fiber of my being. Timeless wisdom & practical way of living not just a philosophy.

[@dd_chanel4912]

One of the best quotes I heard from this video, is “acting Busy but Directionless, will hurt you a lot” one of the best quotes I’ve heated from this video!!

[@2bonk22]

I love the common, down-to-earth translation. It makes it so relatable.

[@shenazhussein3079]

have never known such a book exited.very educative.am going through hard times with people am staying with.thank you very much💐

[@kamsinmirchandani]

I absolutely love this !!!!!

[@mela9ie]

Thank you for this!! Stoicism is a daily practice; constantly needing reflection-I’ll be coming back to this many times in the future. I’ve tried the ‘traditional’ audio book and tried reading Meditations never making it past the first couple pages. This translation makes it so digestible. Truly appreciated, truly a gem and something this generation desperately needed! Cheers to you and the hope you’ll be giving to the folks lucky enough to come across this! May the algorithm always be in your favor. 🖤

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Thank you so much for your support and for the kind words! It means a lot to know that our work makes a difference beyond the entertainment value 🙏🏻

[@ScotttheCyborg]

What I find so amazing about this is that he was writing ONLY to himself. If he had any idea that others were going to read it he might not have written it or would have written in a way that didn't reflect his true feelings.

[@spetrie2325]

Found your Socrates post by accident and om now hooked.. brilliant translation brings the writers up close and personal.

[@3Dimencia]

true then, now and in the future.. a timeless treasure..

[@KingMello_305]

What you did here with this translation....just thank you. Thank you for knowing people need things like this because we are so far removed from the original language most would've just clicked off the video

[@taitkins]

Very well done! Made it such an easier listen! Thank you for your work! 🙏☺️

[@shinxhia]

Thank you bro. This is pure gold. Will listen to this from time to time.

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Glad you like it, brother!

[@milagrosalexander7210]

Thank you. It's very enlightening. So helpful in navigating life❤

[@Dude-vb4ul]

"The universe has its rhythm and I'm vibing with it" lol new catchphrase!

[@everythinginterracial4866]

Thank you!

[@markkelley2094]

Live that life, the best battle to win is within ourselves

[@skepticatbest]

Brilliant. Brilliant.

[@josephorellana50]

A paperback version would be awesome!

[@joesmith8879]

Great job on this video ! Love listening to it daily on the way to work. Helps me so much

[@TheLegendaryLore]

Great to hear, brother!

[@vanessaleocadio964]

Thank u for making my heart happy

[@vanessaleocadio964]

Thank u food for my soul

[@gregnewland2005]

Outstanding!!!