4 Maccabees 1:1-3

Common English Bible

The principle of clear thinking

1 I’m about to prove a most important philosophical principle: godly thinking^[a] is supreme over emotions and desires. I would be giving you good advice then to pay close attention to philosophy. ² This principle is essential for knowing what to do in every situation, and it also includes the praise of the highest moral trait—I’m talking about good judgment. ³ Therefore, if clear thinking is shown to control the emotions that prevent self-control, such as the tendency to overeat and rampant desire,