The quote comes from the Instructions of Shuruppak, one of the oldest known works of wisdom literature, dating back to circa 2600 BCE. Attributed to King Shuruppak, these teachings were recorded on cuneiform tablets and intended as fatherly advice passed down to future generations. The tablet contains a collection of proverbs, advice, and teachings from the king to his son, Ziusudra. Ziusudra is the hero of a great flood story that preceded the story of Noah’s Ark by many centuries. Rediscovered only in the late 1800s, Noah’s Ark is clearly a retelling of this much earlier story with very few details changed. These texts offer a glimpse into the moral and ethical thinking of early Mesopotamian society, demonstrating that even in ancient times, leaders recognized the importance of humility and ethical conduct.
Philosophically, the quote emphasizes a universal ethical principle: the rejection of arrogance and hatred as destructive forces. It suggests that ethical behavior isn’t just a social construct but is deeply rooted in human existence, guiding us toward harmonious living. Shuruppak’s advice speaks to the enduring belief that humility and kindness are essential to a just society, indicating that moral wisdom has always been intertwined with human nature.