Ibn Sina (Avicenna)

Medicine Persian 980 – 1037 391 quotes

Canon of Medicine was standard text for centuries

Quotes by Ibn Sina (Avicenna)

Reason is the light of the soul.

Philosophical correspondence

Music is a spiritual medicine.

Notes on therapy (private)

The purpose of life is to attain perfection.

Private philosophical musings

The physician must have a good heart and a clear mind.

Advice to a young physician

Ignorance is the greatest disease.

Letter to a friend

The soul is immortal.

Metaphysical arguments (private)

The best cure for a disease is prevention.

Medical advice (private)

Happiness is the ultimate goal of human life.

Philosophical notes

The physician must be a keen observer.

Instructions to medical students

Knowledge is power.

Letter to a ruler

The human body is a complex machine, and the physician is its mechanic.

Medical analogies (private)

Do not be afraid to question everything.

Advice to a curious student

The universe is ordered by divine wisdom.

Theological reflections (private)

Friendship is a treasure.

Letter to a close friend

The mind is the ruler of the body.

Psychological observations (private)

Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.

General advice

The physician must have compassion for his patients.

Ethical guidelines for physicians (private)

The soul is the form of the body.

Metaphysical discussions (private)

The world is full of wonders for those who have eyes to see.

Observations on nature (private)

The physician must be a lifelong learner.

Advice to aspiring doctors