# XCVIII explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

A brief directive on the proper use of wealth, advising it be employed as material for specific, appropriate acts rather than for every purpose indiscriminately.

## Themes in this chapter

### Moderation and Simplicity

The excerpt advises a measured and purposeful application of wealth, aligning with the theme of using resources with restraint and for specific, fitting ends rather than excess or indiscriminate use.

### Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline

The chapter provides a practical rule for ethical conduct regarding material possessions, emphasizing disciplined choice in how external goods are utilized.

## Key lines

> We ought to use wealth as the material for some act, not for every act alike.

Wealth should be applied as a resource for particular, suitable actions, not for any and all actions without distinction.

_Highlights the Stoic principle of using externals with discernment and purpose, not as a universal tool for all desires._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters/xcviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters