Euclid

Mathematics Greek -325 – -265 439 quotes

Father of geometry, wrote Elements

Quotes by Euclid

In a given circle to inscribe a triangle equiangular with a given triangle.

Elements (Book IV, Proposition 2) -300

In a given circle to fit a straight line equal to a given straight line which is not greater than the diameter of the circle.

Elements (Book IV, Proposition 1) -300

To construct a segment of a circle containing an angle equal to a given angle.

Elements (Book IV, Proposition 5) -300

In a given circle to inscribe an isosceles triangle having the base angles equal to a given angle.

Elements (Book IV, Proposition 4) -300

To construct a pillar gnomon which at a given hour of a given day will show the summer solstice.

Elements (Book I, related to applications) -300

The laws of nature are but the mathematical thoughts of God.

Attributed (apocryphal)

Geometry enlightens the intellect and sets one's mind at ease.

Attributed

The study of geometry is that which gives soul to the body of knowledge.

Attributed

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth, and geometry was the language thereof.

Attributed (apocryphal)

Proofs are the currency of geometry.

Elements (general principle) -300

Axioms are the foundations upon which all geometry rests.

Elements (Preface implied) -300

The short-lived nature of our existence should not prevent us from pursuing eternal truths like those in mathematics.

Attributed

Mathematics is the door and key to the sciences.

Attributed

To know what is impenetrable to us really exists, manifesting itself as the highest wisdom and the most radiant beauty which our dull faculties can comprehend only in their most primitive forms - this knowledge, this feeling, is at the center of true religiousness.

Misattributed (Einstein, but sometimes linked)

The elements of geometry are eternal.

Elements (implied) -300

Every proposition in geometry is a truth forever.

Attributed

The mind is sharpened by the study of figures.

Attributed

Reasoning from first principles is the essence of mathematical proof.

Elements (methodology) -300

The beauty of mathematics lies in its certainty.

Attributed

Geometry draws the soul towards truth.

Attributed