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Silanus the Christian
Silanus the Christian

Chapter XIII

Chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian is here in full — 124 sentences across 25 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/24 · 5 lines
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ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”
I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.
Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.
As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.
If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Silanus the Christian

Chapter XIII

Chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian is here in full — 124 sentences across 25 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/24 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”
/ˌaɪˈzeɪə ɑːn ˈprɑː.və.dəns ˈiːvɪn wen aɪ wɑːz ɪn ðə ækt ʌv ˈroʊlɪŋ ʌp ðə bʊk ʌv ˌaɪˈzeɪə ˈveri leɪt æt naɪt ɪt əˈkɜːrd tuː miː ðæt ðə ˈkwestʃən ɪz ðer ə laɪf ˈæftər deθ maɪt biː kəˈnektɪd wɪð əˈnʌðər ɪz ðer tuː biː hɪˈræftər ə reɪn ʌv ˈraɪtʃəsnəs/
Line 2
I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.
/aɪ traɪd tuː ɡɪv maɪ maɪnd rest baɪ ˈθɪŋkɪŋ ʌv ˈʌðər θɪŋz bʌt ðɪs ˈsekənd ˈkwestʃən keɪm bæk tuː miː əˈɡen ənd əˈɡen boʊθ bɪˈfɔːr ənd ˈæftər aɪ rɪˈtaɪrd tuː rest/
Line 3
Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.
Line 4
As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.
/æz fɔːr ə ˈkɪŋdəm ʌv ˈraɪtʃəsnəs ˈæftər deθ ɪn əˈnʌðər wɜːrld aɪ wɑːz naʊ ˈsɜːrtən ðæt ˌepɪkˈtiːtəs dɪd nɑːt ɪkˈspekt ɪt ənd aɪ bɪˈɡæn tuː daʊt ˈweðər hiː ɪkˈspektəd sʌtʃ ə ˈkɪŋdəm æt ˈeni taɪm ɪn ðɪs wɜːrld/
Line 5
If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

Cynics noun US /ˈsɪnɪks/

plural of “cynic” — someone who is critical of the motives of others

From this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

Epictetus noun US /ˌepɪkˈtiːtəs/

Greek philosopher who was a Stoic (circa 50-130)

From this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

foresees verb US /fɔːrˈsiːz/

third-person singular of “foresee” — realize beforehand

From this reading “If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.”

isaiah noun US /ˌaɪˈzeɪə/

(Old Testament) the first of the major Hebrew prophets (8th century BC)

From this reading “ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?””

prepares verb US /priˈperz/

third-person singular of “prepare” — make ready or suitable or equip in advance for a particular purpose or for some use, event, etc

From this reading “If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.”

righteousness noun US /ˈraɪtʃəsnəs/

adhering to moral principles

From this reading “ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?””

sceptre noun US /ˈseptər/

the imperial authority symbolized by a scepter

From this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

Stoics noun US /ˈstoʊɪks/

plural of “stoic” — a member of the ancient Greek school of philosophy founded by Zeno

From this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

came back verb + particle counted as “come back”

be restored

In this reading “I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.”

other things adjective + noun

In this reading “I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.”

small band adjective + noun

In this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

in comparison preposition + noun

In this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

own mind verb + noun

In this reading “Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.”

at night preposition + noun

In this reading “ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?””

any time adjective + noun

In this reading “As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.”

reign of verb + particle

In this reading “ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?””

All words in this reading · 116

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

actverbUS /ækt/

perform an action, or work out or perform (an action)

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

againadverbUS /əˈɡen/

anew

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

anotherdeterminerUS /əˈnʌðər/

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

AsconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

assertverbUS /əˈsɜːrt/

state categorically

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

backadverbUS /bæk/

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

bandnounUS /bænd/

an unofficial association of people or groups

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

basisnounUS /ˈbeɪsəs/

a relation that provides the foundation for something

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

beganverbUS /bɪˈɡæn/

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

beliefnounUS /bɪˈliːf/

any cognitive content held as true

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

believeverbUS /bɪˈliːv/

accept as true; take to be true

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

bestnounUS /best/

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

booknounUS /bʊk/

a written work or composition that has been published (printed on pages bound together)

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

bothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/

the two together, not just one

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

cameverbUS /keɪm/

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

comparisonnounUS /kəmˈperəsən/

the act of examining resemblances

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

connectedadjectiveUS /kəˈnektɪd/

being joined in close association

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

CynicsnounUS /ˈsɪnɪks/

plural of “cynic” — someone who is critical of the motives of others

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

deathnounUS /deθ/

the event of dying or departure from life

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

Diogenesnoun

an ancient Greek philosopher and Cynic who rejected social conventions (circa 400-325 BC)

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

doubtnounUS /daʊt/

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

EpictetusnounUS /ˌepɪkˈtiːtəs/

Greek philosopher who was a Stoic (circa 50-130)

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

Epicureans

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

EvenadjectiveUS /ˈiːvɪn/

divisible by two

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

exceptprepositionUS /ɪkˈsept/

apart from; not including

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

expectverbUS /ɪkˈspekt/

regard something as probable or likely

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

expectedadjectiveUS /ɪkˈspektəd/

considered likely or probable to happen or arrive

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

findverbUS /faɪnd/

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

foreseesverbUS /fɔːrˈsiːz/

third-person singular of “foresee” — realize beforehand

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

giveverbUS /ɡɪv/

cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

GodnounUS /ɡɑːd/

the supernatural being conceived as the perfect and omnipotent and omniscient originator and ruler of the universe; the object of worship in monotheistic religions

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

hepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

hereafteradverbUS /hɪˈræftər/

in a subsequent part of this document or statement or matter etc.

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

IfconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

impliedverbUS /ˌɪmˈplaɪd/

inflected form of “imply” — express or state indirectly

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

Isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

ISAIAHnounUS /ˌaɪˈzeɪə/

(Old Testament) the first of the major Hebrew prophets (8th century BC)

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

kingdomnounUS /ˈkɪŋdəm/

a domain in which something is dominant

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

knewverbUS /nuː/

inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

lateadjectiveUS /leɪt/

being or occurring at an advanced period of time or after a usual or expected time

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

lifenounUS /laɪf/

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

mepronounUS /miː/

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

meansnounUS /miːnz/

thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

mindnounUS /maɪnd/

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

mindsnounUS /maɪndz/

plural of “mind” — that which is responsible for one's thoughts, feelings, and conscious brain functions; the seat of the faculty of reason

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

mydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

myriads

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

nightnounUS /naɪt/

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

non-philosophic

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/

not one thing; not anything

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

occurredverbUS /əˈkɜːrd/

inflected form of “occur” — come to pass

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

ONprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

philosopher's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

preparesverbUS /priˈperz/

third-person singular of “prepare” — make ready or suitable or equip in advance for a particular purpose or for some use, event, etc

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

PROVIDENCEnounUS /ˈprɑː.və.dəns/

The protective care of God or nature as a spiritual power. (Sự quan phòng, thiên ý phù hộ.)

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

questionverbUS /ˈkwestʃən/

challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

reignverbUS /reɪn/

have sovereign power

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

restverbUS /rest/

not move; be in a resting position

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

retiredadjectiveUS /rɪˈtaɪrd/

no longer active in your work or profession

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

righteousnessnounUS /ˈraɪtʃəsnəs/

adhering to moral principles

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

rollingadjectiveUS /ˈroʊlɪŋ/

uttered with a trill

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

sceptrenounUS /ˈseptər/

the imperial authority symbolized by a scepter

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

secondnounUS /ˈsekənd/

1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

smalladjectiveUS /smɔːl/

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

spokenounUS /spoʊk/

support consisting of a radial member of a wheel joining the hub to the rim

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

StoicsnounUS /ˈstoʊɪks/

plural of “stoic” — a member of the ancient Greek school of philosophy founded by Zeno

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

thereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

thingsnounUS /θɪŋz/

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

thinkingnounUS /ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/

the process of using your mind to consider something carefully

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

thronenounUS /θroʊn/

the chair of state for a monarch, bishop, etc.

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

triedadjectiveUS /traɪd/

tested and proved useful or correct

From this reading I tried to give my mind rest by thinking of other things; but this second question came back to me again and again both before and after I retired to rest.

understandverbUS /ˌʌndərˈstænd/

know and comprehend the nature or meaning of

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

whereconjunctionUS /wer/

in or at the place that

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

whetherconjunctionUS /ˈweðər/

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading If to believe in Providence means to believe in a God who foresees and prepares that which is best—I could not understand where Epictetus could find a basis for such a belief.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading ISAIAH ON PROVIDENCE Even when I was in the act of rolling up the book of Isaiah, very late at night, it occurred to me that the question “Is there a life after death?” might be connected with another, “Is there to be hereafter a reign of righteousness?”

worldnounUS /wɜːrld/

everything that exists anywhere

From this reading As for a kingdom of righteousness after death in another world, I was now certain that Epictetus did not expect it; and I began to doubt whether he expected such a kingdom at any time in this world.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Epictetus spoke about “the sceptre and throne of Diogenes”: but I knew he would not assert that the philosopher’s “sceptre” implied any present kingdom except over his own mind and the minds of a small band of Cynics—small in comparison with Stoics and Epicureans, and nothing at all in comparison with the non-philosophic myriads.

Chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian by Edwin Abbott Abbott holds 124 sentences, grouped into 25 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian contain?

Chapter 13 holds 124 sentences of Silanus the Christian, unabridged, divided into 25 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian by Edwin Abbott Abbott exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 124 sentences, grouped into 25 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 13 of Silanus the Christian?

Work through the 25 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 25 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 13 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 13 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading Silanus the Christian

Common questions about reading Silanus the Christian by Edwin Abbott Abbott on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Silanus the Christian?

Yes. All 6584 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #56843 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Silanus the Christian is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #56843, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Silanus the Christian take to read?

About 548 minutes of reading across 1317 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Silanus the Christian section by section

How to work through Silanus the Christian section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 37 chapters of Silanus the Christian to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in Silanus the Christian

Words and structures a reader meets early in Silanus the Christian, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Guide
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Silanus the Christian; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Through
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Silanus the Christian; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Greek
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Silanus the Christian; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Hebrew
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Silanus the Christian; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.