aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem Meaning

The phrase “aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem” is not a single Latin word but a complete Latin expression which translates to “Remember to keep a calm mind in difficult situations.” This phrase is a part of a well-known verse by the Roman poet Lucretius in his epic poem “De Rerum Natura” (On the Nature of Things). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the phrase:

Breakdown of the Phrase

1. Aequam

   • Meaning: calm, even, equal
   • Etymology: Derived from the Latin word “aequus,” which means “equal” or “level.”
   • Morphological details: It’s the accusative singular feminine form of the adjective “aequus.”
   • Usage example: “Aequam mentem serva” - “Keep a calm mind.”
   • Historial context: Commonly used in classical texts to refer to balance or steadiness in various contexts, particularly philosophy and ethics.

2. Memento

   • Meaning: remember
   • Etymology: From the Latin verb “meminisse,” which means “to remember.” “Memento” is a second person singular imperative form.
   • Morphological details: The root “mem-” suggests memory or recall.
   • Usage example: “Memento mori” - “Remember that you must die.”
   • Historical context: This term is often used in proverbs and expressions to convey a moral lesson or a philosophical reflection.

3. Rebus

   • Meaning: things, matters
   • Etymology: From the Latin noun “res,” meaning “thing” or “matter.” In a genitive or ablative construction, “rebus” can indicate “in matters” or “in things.”
   • Morphological details: “Rebus” is the ablative plural form of “res.”
   • Usage example: In a simpler phrase: “Rebus inter se” translates as “Things among themselves.”
   • Historical context: Frequently appears in legal and philosophical texts referring to matters at hand.

4. In

   • Meaning: in, on, at
   • Etymology: A preposition of Latin origin, used similarly in English as a prefix for locations.
   • Usage example: “In urbe” - “In the city.”
   • Historical context: A common preposition across various Latin texts to denote location or time.

5. Arduis

   • Meaning: difficult, arduous
   • Etymology: From the adjective “arduus,” meaning “high” or “difficult” to attain or manage.
   • Morphological details: “Arduis” is the dative or ablative plural form of “arduus.”
   • Usage example: “Arduis laboribus” - “In difficult labors.”
   • Historical context: This term is applied to various contexts where something is tough or challenging.

6. Servare

   • Meaning: to keep, to save, to preserve
   • Etymology: From the Latin verb “servare,” which means “to save.”
   • Morphological details: It is an infinitive form, conveying a general action.
   • Usage example: “Servare dolorem” - “To keep the pain.”
   • Historical context: It often appears in texts regarding preservation or maintaining something.

7. Mentem

   • Meaning: mind, intellect, spirit
   • Etymology: From the noun “mens,” which means “mind,” “thought,” or “intelligence.”
   • Morphological details: “Mentem” is the accusative singular form of “mens.”
   • Usage example: “Mentem tuorum” - “The mind of yours.”
   • Historical context: Used in philosophical texts discussing consciousness and human thought.

Etymology and Development

The entire phrase emphasizes a philosophical ideal that is rooted in Stoic thought, advocating for emotional stability amidst the turbulence of life. The origin of the phrase ties into the broader context of Latin literature, heavily informed by Stoicism and Epicureanism, where the preservation of a tranquil mind in adversity was a crucial tenet.

Synonyms and Related Words

• For “aequam”: “tranquillum” (calm), “aequum” (level).
• For “memento”: “memoriae” (memory).
• For “rebus”: “facta” (facts), “negotiis” (businesses/matters).
• For “arduus”: “difficilis” (difficult).
• For “servare”: “custodire” (to guard, keep).
• For “mentem”: “intellectum” (understanding).

Historical Context

This phrase comes from the poetic tradition of classical Latin literature, often serving as moral guidance. It reflects the philosophical framework of the time, focusing on how to achieve mental balance and clarity during challenging times.

Usage in Modern English

The phrase and its sentiment have influenced English literature and philosophy, often referenced in discussions around mindfulness, mental health, and emotional resilience. Variations of it can be found in motivational sayings and self-help contexts, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a calm mindset during life’s difficulties.

In summary, “aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem” is not only a linguistic composition but echoes profound philosophical considerations about the human experience and managing life’s adversities.

1. Latin: Aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem.
   English: Remember to maintain a calm mind in difficult circumstances.

2. Latin: Aequam memento, et omnia tibi prospere evenient.
   English: Keep calm in mind, and everything will turn out well for you.

3. Latin: In adversis, aequam memento rebus servare mentem.
   English: In adversity, remember to preserve a balanced mind.

4. Latin: Aequam memento rebus in arduis, et fortuna te non derelinquet.
   English: Maintain a serene mind in tough times, and fortune will not abandon you.

5. Latin: Dum vita difficilis est, aequam memento rebus servare mentem.
   English: While life is challenging, remember to keep a level mind.