Avicenna (Ibn Sina)

Medicine Persian 980 – 1037 356 quotes

A polymath whose 'The Canon of Medicine' was a standard medical text for centuries and integrated Greek and Indian medical traditions.

Most quoted

"Now it is established in the sciences that no knowledge is acquired save through the study of its causes and beginnings, if it has had causes and beginnings; nor completed except by knowledge of its accidents and accompanying essentials."

— from The Canon of Medicine

"Medicine is a science from which one learns the states of the human body in health and disease, in order to preserve health when it exists and restore it when it has been lost."

— from The Canon of Medicine (Al-Qanun fi al-Tibb)

"The more you study, the more you learn. The more you learn, the more you forget. The more you forget, the less you know. So why study?"

— from Attributed, often as a humorous paradox

All quotes by Avicenna (Ibn Sina) (356)

Patience is the key to all success.

Attributed, a common wisdom saying.

Do not despair, for hope is the light that guides us through darkness.

Attributed, reflecting a hopeful and resilient outlook.

Every disease has a cure, and every problem has a solution.

Attributed, reflecting his optimistic approach to medicine and problem-solving.

The beauty of the universe is a reflection of the Creator's wisdom.

Attributed, reflecting his theological and philosophical views.

Seek knowledge, even if you have to go to China.

A well-known Hadith, often quoted by scholars like Avicenna to emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge.

The human body is a marvel of creation, and its workings are a testament to divine wisdom.

Attributed, reflecting his anatomical and physiological studies within a theological framework.

The purpose of life is to know God.

Attributed, reflecting his ultimate philosophical and spiritual goal.

Reason is the lamp that illuminates the path to truth.

Attributed, emphasizing the importance of rational inquiry in his philosophy.

The greatest victory is to conquer oneself.

Attributed, reflecting a focus on self-mastery and inner discipline.

Friendship is a tree that provides shade and fruit.

Attributed, reflecting the value he placed on personal relationships.

The physician should treat the patient, not just the disease.

Attributed, highlighting his patient-centered approach to medicine.

Knowledge without action is like a tree without fruit.

Attributed, emphasizing the practical application of knowledge.

The past is gone, the future is uncertain, only the present is yours.

Attributed, reflecting a focus on living in the present moment.

The heart is the seat of the soul, and its health is paramount.

Attributed, reflecting his understanding of the heart's importance in both physical and spiritual well-being.

Do not be afraid to question, for questioning is the beginning of wisdom.

Attributed, reflecting his encouragement of critical thinking.

The universe is a symphony, and every creature is a note.

Attributed, reflecting his holistic and interconnected view of existence.

The true measure of a man is not his wealth, but his wisdom.

Attributed, emphasizing the value of intellectual and spiritual wealth.

The pursuit of knowledge is a sacred duty.

Attributed, reflecting his deep commitment to learning.

The body is the temple of the soul, and it must be cared for.

Attributed, reflecting his emphasis on physical health as integral to spiritual well-being.

Humility is the foundation of all virtues.

Attributed, reflecting a common ethical principle.

Contemporaries of Avicenna (Ibn Sina)

Other Medicines born within 50 years of Avicenna (Ibn Sina) (980–1037).

Ibn Sina (Avicenna)
980–1037 · Persian
391 quotes