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Meditations: A New Translation Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 25,019 ratings
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NATIONALBESTSELLER “Meditations offers a glimpse into [Marcus Aurelius’s] mind, his habits, and his approach to life. . . . I think any reader would find something useful to take away from it.”—James Clear, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Atomic Habits

“To me, this is the greatest book ever written. . . . It is the definitive text on self-discipline, personal ethics, humility, self-actualization, and strength. . . . If you’re going to read it, you absolutely have to go with the Gregory Hays translation.”—Ryan Holiday, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Obstacle Is the Way

“It is unbelievable to see how the emperor’s words have stood the test of time. . . . Read a page or two anytime you feel like the world is too much.”—Arnold Schwarzenegger, The Wall Street Journal

Nearly two thousand years after it was written, Meditations remains profoundly relevant for anyone seeking to lead a meaningful life.

Your ability to control your thoughts—treat it with respect. It’s all that protects your mind from false perceptions—false to your nature, and that of all rational beings.

A series of spiritual exercises filled with wisdom, practical guidance, and profound understanding of human behavior, Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations remains one of the greatest works of spiritual and ethical reflection ever written. With bite-size insights and advice on everything from living in the world to coping with adversity and interacting with others, Meditations has become required reading not only for statesmen and philosophers alike, but also for generations of readers who responded to the straightforward intimacy of his style.

In Gregory Hays’s translation—the first in nearly four decades—Marcus’s thoughts speak with a new immediacy. In fresh and unencumbered English, Hays vividly conveys the spareness and compression of the original Greek text. Never before have Marcus’s insights been so directly and powerfully presented.

With an Introduction that outlines Marcus’s life and career, the essentials of Stoic doctrine, the style and construction of the Meditations, and the work’s ongoing influence, this edition makes it possible to fully rediscover the thoughts of one of the most enlightened and intelligent leaders of any era.

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  1. Listening Length
    4 hours and 35 minutes
  2. Author
    Marcus Aurelius, see all
  3. Narrator
    Roger Davis
  4. Audible release date
    July 11, 2023
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Random House Audio
  7. ASIN
    B0C5K39V65
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
  10. See all details
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Product details

Listening Length 4 hours and 35 minutes
Author Marcus Aurelius, Gregory Hays - translator
Narrator Roger Davis
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date July 11, 2023
Publisher Random House Audio
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B0C5K39V65
Best Sellers Rank #1,286 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#4 in Greek & Roman Philosophy (Audible Books & Originals)
#4 in Ethics & Morality Philosophy
#14 in Ancient Greek & Roman Philosophy

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4.7 out of 5 stars
25,019 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to read and understand. They appreciate the fine insights and wisdom about life from a remarkable leader. The translation is clear and concise, making it an enjoyable reading experience. Many readers consider it a great investment worth the price. They describe it as a true examination of stoicism, a classic work for modern times, and a timeless classic. Customers also mention that the book captures the essence of a remarkable leader from a time we would all benefit from.

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ReadabilityInsightTranslation qualityValue for moneyStoicismEraHuman characteristicsBook version
496 customers mention "Readability"472 positive24 negative

Customers find the book engaging and interesting. They describe it as an excellent read for great minds. The text is accessible and profound, igniting thought. Readers appreciate the beautiful edition and inexpensive paperback.

"...- Spareness and Compression: Hays captures the essence—the spare beauty—of the original Greek text. No frills, no excess. Just clarity...." Read more

"...I think what he had to say was super interesting and the translations were easy to read and understand...." Read more

"...translator's meticulous attention to both semantic fidelity and stylistic nuance enables a comprehensive understanding of Aurelius’s philosophical..." Read more

"So very wise words from the ancient past. I saved a few passages to reread. The translation is very modern and easy too understand...." Read more

389 customers mention "Insight"369 positive20 negative

Customers find the book insightful and helpful for living a good life. It offers philosophical thoughts and meditations from Marcus Aurelius, providing valuable perspectives that readers may not have considered. The book provides context for the Meditations and gives insights into Aurelius' mindset as a person and ruler.

"...No frills, no excess. Just clarity. Never before have Marcus's insights been so vividly presented. - Immediacy: These pages breathe anew...." Read more

"...This version not only adheres to the historical and intellectual integrity of the text but also enhances accessibility for contemporary readers,..." Read more

"So very wise words from the ancient past. I saved a few passages to reread. The translation is very modern and easy too understand...." Read more

"...The context is well established and it really does paint a picture of who Marcus Aurelius was as a leader warrior. What is thought process is...." Read more

369 customers mention "Translation quality"307 positive62 negative

Customers find the translations clear and concise. They appreciate the powerful translation from Greek by Gregory Hays. The prose is elegant, making it accessible to both seasoned philosophers and readers new to the subject. Overall, customers find the book unique and easy to understand.

"...No frills, no excess. Just clarity. Never before have Marcus's insights been so vividly presented. - Immediacy: These pages breathe anew...." Read more

"...what he had to say was super interesting and the translations were easy to read and understand...." Read more

"...This edition provides an innovative approach to the translation of Aurelius’s meditative discourses, maintaining the philosophical rigor and ethical..." Read more

"...The translation is very modern and easy too understand. I am kind of on the fence about it, in some ways it is almost too modern...." Read more

52 customers mention "Value for money"40 positive12 negative

Customers appreciate the book's value for money. They find it worth the price, a great investment, and well-put together for the price.

"...- Spareness and Compression: Hays captures the essence—the spare beauty—of the original Greek text. No frills, no excess. Just clarity...." Read more

"Beautiful edition, very inexpensive paperback, looking forward to reading passages every night." Read more

"...This is a great translation at a great price. Offers a easy to read and to see the thoughts of one of the great humans to live...." Read more

"...It's a bit more expensive, but the better flowing translation appears to be worth the slightly added cost." Read more

44 customers mention "Stoicism"44 positive0 negative

Customers find the book a good introduction to Stoicism. They say it's true to the simplicity of the Stoic lifestyle and casual writing style. The book is described as a true Stoic EDC kit for spiritual emergencies, with values like wisdom, justice, courage, and moderation. It helps them maintain their sanity through difficult times.

"...Aurelius’s insights on virtue, existential contemplation, and the Stoic ethos...." Read more

"...and effective works out there, especially because this ethos meshes with stoicism...." Read more

"...Second, the book does a great job of describing Stoicism but doesn’t really get into any validation of the philosophy itself, leaving the reader on..." Read more

"...He managed to keep his sanity through hard times, especially in the last decade of his life, by continuous mental exercises in logic, ethics and by..." Read more

34 customers mention "Era"30 positive4 negative

Customers appreciate the book's era. They find it timeless and relevant for modern times. The translation makes ancient wisdom feel modern and fresh.

"...It's a classic, but don't approach it as a self-help book so much as a book of personal reflections that happen to contain gems of inspiration for..." Read more

"...The themes explored in the book are timeless, and many of the ideas presented by Marcus Aurelius are still relevant today...." Read more

"...of Marcus Aurelius, and this translation makes his ancient wisdom feel strikingly modern and relevant...." Read more

"...A historic piece for modern times." Read more

33 customers mention "Human characteristics"33 positive0 negative

Customers find the book relatable and a modern translation that captures the essence of a remarkable leader from a time we would all benefit. They describe the character as fascinating and possibly their favorite stoic. The book teaches compassion and humanity throughout life.

"...truth-seekers, this book isn't just ink on paper; it's a portal to the soul of an emperor...." Read more

"...Unlike Nietzsche however, this book goes strongly against ego. Aurelius doesn't say he is a genius, but that he is a human like any other...." Read more

"...It delves into the human condition, the nature of virtue, and the impermanence of life...." Read more

"...a natural translation of the Meditations with immediacy, warmness, humanity and stunning beauty, truly bringing to life the eternal wisdom of the..." Read more

26 customers mention "Book version"26 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book version. They find it faithful to the original, with a good translation and a standard paperback or hardcover edition. The kindle version is fine.

"First, the book: it is standard paperback perfectbound. Nothing special, but not exceptionally bad...." Read more

"...this is how Marcus Aurelius really kept his notes and this version is faithful, or this version is pre-digested for you and was cut short in places..." Read more

"...Meditations: A New Translation is an acceptable improvement upon an already great book...." Read more

"this is the best version i have come across, the introduction by the author give you a good inside into Marcus Aurelio life...." Read more

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Top reviews from the United States

  • Jon
    5.0 out of 5 stars Meditations: A New Translation - A Journey Within
    Reviewed in the United States on April 29, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Introduction:
    🌟 As a seeker of wisdom and a wanderer of ancient texts, I recently embarked on a pilgrimage through the pages of "Meditations: A New Translation" by Marcus Aurelius. Let me tell you, fellow truth-seekers, this book isn't just ink on paper; it's a portal to the soul of an emperor. Buckle up, for we're about to dive into the depths of Stoic seas.

    1. The Timeless Echoes: Marcus's Inner Monologue

    Nearly two thousand years after its creation, "Meditations" remains a beacon for those navigating the tempests of existence. Marcus Aurelius, philosopher and Roman emperor (A.D. 161–180), penned these musings—a series of spiritual exercises that transcend time. Here's why it's more relevant than ever:

    - Wisdom Unfurls: Marcus's insights ripple across centuries. From grappling with adversity to harmonizing with the cosmos, he whispers truths that echo in our hearts.
    - Stoic Compass: Imagine sitting with Marcus in his study, sipping philosophical tea. His words—practical, profound—guide us through life's labyrinth. Stoicism isn't just a philosophy; it's a life raft.

    2. Gregory Hays's Translation: A Fresh Breeze

    In this new translation by Gregory Hays, Marcus's thoughts emerge like morning dew on ancient leaves. Hays strips away the cobwebs of time, presenting the emperor's wisdom in unencumbered English. It's as if Marcus himself leaned over our shoulders and whispered, "Listen closely." 📜✨

    - Spareness and Compression: Hays captures the essence—the spare beauty—of the original Greek text. No frills, no excess. Just clarity. Never before have Marcus's insights been so vividly presented.
    - Immediacy: These pages breathe anew. Marcus's musings feel immediate, urgent. It's not a history lesson; it's a conversation across millennia.

    3. The Journey Within: A User Manual for Life

    - Leadership Lessons: Whether you're an emperor or an everyday soul, Marcus's counsel transcends titles. How to lead with integrity? How to navigate chaos? It's all here.
    - Facing Mortality: Death, that eternal companion, dances through these pages. Marcus invites us to embrace mortality—to live fully, knowing our days are numbered.
    - Inner Citadel: Imagine fortifying your mind like a stoic fortress. Marcus hands us the blueprints. When life hurls arrows, we deflect with virtue.

    4. Conclusion: A Grateful Ovation

    In the quiet chambers of our minds, "Meditations" unfurls its tapestry. It's not just a book; it's a mirror reflecting our humanity. So, fellow seekers, raise your worn bookmarks and toast to Marcus Aurelius—the sage, the emperor, the friend we never met.

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 Philosophical Stars)

    *Disclaimer: No toga-wearing philosophers were harmed during the writing of this review.*

    May your thoughts be as timeless as the Meditations. 🌿🌟
    25 people found this helpful
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  • Evan Elmore
    5.0 out of 5 stars A good beginner book for philosophy and stoicism
    Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I’ve gotten into philosophy recently and was interested in Marcus Aurelius’ work so I got his most famous writings. I think what he had to say was super interesting and the translations were easy to read and understand. I would recommend this book to anyone looking into reading about philosophy.
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  • REMAIN HUMBLE
    5.0 out of 5 stars "𝕄𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤 ℝ𝕖𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕕: 𝕄𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕤 𝔸𝕦𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕚𝕦𝕤 𝔾𝕠𝕖𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕕𝕖𝕣𝕟
    Reviewed in the United States on August 23, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    "Meditations: A New Translation" revitalizes Marcus Aurelius’s seminal work through a contemporary lens, rendering his Stoic reflections with precision and clarity. This edition provides an innovative approach to the translation of Aurelius’s meditative discourses, maintaining the philosophical rigor and ethical considerations intrinsic to the original text while adapting the language to meet modern interpretive standards.The translation adeptly preserves the profundity and subtlety of Aurelius’s insights on virtue, existential contemplation, and the Stoic ethos. The translator's meticulous attention to both semantic fidelity and stylistic nuance enables a comprehensive understanding of Aurelius’s philosophical precepts. This version not only adheres to the historical and intellectual integrity of the text but also enhances accessibility for contemporary readers, thereby enriching the engagement with Aurelius’s enduring philosophical legacy.
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    REMAIN HUMBLE
    5.0 out of 5 stars "𝕄𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤 ℝ𝕖𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕕: 𝕄𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕤 𝔸𝕦𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕚𝕦𝕤 𝔾𝕠𝕖𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕕𝕖𝕣𝕟
    Reviewed in the United States on August 23, 2024
    "Meditations: A New Translation" revitalizes Marcus Aurelius’s seminal work through a contemporary lens, rendering his Stoic reflections with precision and clarity. This edition provides an innovative approach to the translation of Aurelius’s meditative discourses, maintaining the philosophical rigor and ethical considerations intrinsic to the original text while adapting the language to meet modern interpretive standards.The translation adeptly preserves the profundity and subtlety of Aurelius’s insights on virtue, existential contemplation, and the Stoic ethos. The translator's meticulous attention to both semantic fidelity and stylistic nuance enables a comprehensive understanding of Aurelius’s philosophical precepts. This version not only adheres to the historical and intellectual integrity of the text but also enhances accessibility for contemporary readers, thereby enriching the engagement with Aurelius’s enduring philosophical legacy.
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    5 people found this helpful
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  • Kindle Customer
    4.0 out of 5 stars Enlightening
    Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    So very wise words from the ancient past. I saved a few passages to reread. The translation is very modern and easy too understand. I am kind of on the fence about it, in some ways it is almost too modern. Maybe taking away some of the weight of the words. Some themes are repetitive, Biden coming down to the fact we are all going to die so it doesn’t matter.
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  • Payo
    5.0 out of 5 stars Pretty good read
    Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Been reading this for a minute now and the book is as good as others say . Keep in mind Marcus Aurelius has had quite the story to tell until building up to meditations is a little over a quarter of the book. The context is well established and it really does paint a picture of who Marcus Aurelius was as a leader warrior. What is thought process is. All the good stuff and a great buildup on understanding his stoic lifestyle. You won't be let down, especially if you're looking into understanding stoicism
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Dakota
    5.0 out of 5 stars An Important Learning Tool for All People.
    Reviewed in Canada on June 12, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    **Meditations: A New Translation by Gregory Hays**

    Marcus Aurelius 'Meditations,' a timeless classic of Stoic philosophy, has been revered for centuries as a guide to living a virtuous and meaningful life. Gregory Hays' new translation offers a fresh and accessible rendering of this profound work.

    **Clarity and Elegance**

    Hays' writing is characterized by its clarity and elegance. He deftly navigates the nuances of Marcus's thought, preserving the original's wisdom while making it approachable to modern readers. The result is a translation that flows effortlessly, inviting the reader to engage deeply with the text.

    **Insights for Daily Life**

    'Meditations' is not merely a philosophical treatise, but also a practical manual for living. Hays' translation effectively conveys the practical advice and insights that Marcus offers on topics ranging from emotional management to decision-making. By distilling the essence of Marcus's teachings, Hays makes them relevant to the challenges we face in our own lives.

    **Historical Context**

    Hays provides invaluable annotations and an insightful introduction that contextualizes the text within Marcus's life and times. This historical background enhances the reader's understanding of Marcus's perspective and the relevance of his ideas to his contemporaries.

    **Impact**

    Hays' translation has been praised by scholars and enthusiasts alike. It has become a go-to resource for those seeking to delve into Stoicism and its transformative potential. The translation's clarity and accessibility have made it a favorite among students, professionals, and anyone interested in personal growth.

    **Conclusion**

    Gregory Hays' new translation of 'Meditations' is an exceptional work that brings Marcus Aurelius' wisdom to a new generation of readers. Its clarity, elegance, practical insights, and historical context make it an invaluable addition to the canon of Stoic philosophy. For those seeking guidance on living a life of virtue, resilience, and purpose, Hays' translation is an indispensable resource.
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  • Bruno
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great
    Reviewed in Spain on December 23, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This is a great book
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  • Mattias
    5.0 out of 5 stars Good Quality.
    Reviewed in Germany on November 28, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Good quality
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  • N
    5.0 out of 5 stars good book
    Reviewed in the Netherlands on November 7, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    good book
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  • Jamie
    2.0 out of 5 stars Cover page came torn off
    Reviewed in Belgium on July 3, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I’m not sure if this is normal but it’s the first time i’ve seen this so i’m pretty sure it’s not.
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    Jamie
    2.0 out of 5 stars Cover page came torn off
    Reviewed in Belgium on July 3, 2024
    I’m not sure if this is normal but it’s the first time i’ve seen this so i’m pretty sure it’s not.
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