Chapter II. They Destroy Our Free Will by Asserting That Our Purposes Are Set in Motion by Fate

[PORPHYRY] [1] ‘Thus also Apollo spake concerning a certain man, explaining at the same time whence came his eagerness for war:

“In Mars he hath a vehement natal star, Which drives him on, yet not unto the tomb: For Jupiter’s decree foretold it thus, And soon shall give him glory from the war.”

‘And again on another man:

“Saturn’s long hair outspread and cruel rays Saddened the hapless boy’s tempestuous life.”’

So great a horror of Fate have these brave gods, as to confess that they cannot even defend their own temples when struck by lightning! Much hope there must be then for men to get help by prayer from those who are not even able to help themselves! Of what use is it henceforth to be pious, and to worship and serve the gods, who can give no help at all even to themselves? Hear, however, what the oracle says: