Debunking the Misinterpretation of Epictetus’s Enchiridion

How Misinterpreting “Eph’hemin” as “Control” Distorts Epictetus’s Message on the Unconquerable Nature of Self-Reflective Reason

In the history of ancient philosophy, few teachings shine brighter than the Stoic lessons of Epictetus. Among his wise sayings, the famous “Control Dichotomy” holds a particularly interesting place. Often understood as a simple split between things we control and those beyond our ability, this dichotomy has changed through a more precise translation, challenging our normal understanding.

The traditional interpretation paints a clear picture: a world divided into two categories — our area (opinions, desires, etc.) and the external realm (other people, events, etc.). Yet, a closer look at the original text, especially A.A. Long’s translation, reveals a previously missed subtlety.

The key lies in the translation of Epictetus’s phrase, “eph’hemin,” often rendered as “under our control.” However, Long’s translation sheds light on the inaccuracy, showing that what truly belongs to us is not control, but the very ability of reason itself. This change in view marks a turning point in our understanding of the dichotomy.

Epictetus explains further that “eph’hemin” covers our unique power of logical thought and judgment. This ability empowers us to:

Examine Ourselves: We can look inward, honestly examining and judging ourselves. Assess Ourselves: We can evaluate our own strengths and flaws, building a realistic picture of our true selves.

Make Reasoned Choices: Our ability to reason guides us towards logical decisions, free from the sway of passing emotions.

Epictetus lifts up reason to a god-given gift, our “master ability,” the “best of them all.” He focuses on its safety — no outside force can overcome or control it.

With this revelation, the Control Dichotomy goes beyond its normal interpretation. It stops being a simple split of control and becomes an acceptance of the protected nature of our reasoning power. The ability to think clearly, make sound judgments, and choose wisely is inherently ours, an unchanged essence no external force can take away.

Epictetus’s Dichotomy, often misunderstood as a list of limits, reveals itself as a powerful celebration of the human ability for reason. Through a deeper understanding, we recognize that our faculty of reason — a divine gift given to us — readies us to navigate life’s difficulties wisely and resiliently. By accepting this deeper interpretation, we unlock the true essence of Epictetus’s lessons and grow a profound understanding of our own built-in strengths.