Meaning: The quote "But I like not these great success of yours; for I know how jealous are the gods" is attributed to Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian often referred to as the "Father of History." Herodotus lived during the 5th century BCE and is best known for his work "The Histories," which is considered one of the foundational texts of Western history and historiography. In this quote, Herodotus expresses a cautionary sentiment about the nature of success and the potential consequences of attracting the envy and wrath of the gods.

Herodotus was deeply interested in the intersection of human affairs and divine intervention, and his writings often reflect a belief in the influence of the gods on the course of human events. The quote in question exemplifies this perspective, as it suggests a wariness of excessive success and the potential for divine retribution. This theme is recurrent in Herodotus's work, where he frequently explores the role of divine favor or disfavor in shaping the fortunes of individuals and nations.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, but at its core, it conveys a sense of humility and caution in the face of achievement. Herodotus seems to be warning against excessive pride or hubris, as he believes that the gods may respond with jealousy or punishment when mortals achieve great success. This reflects a common motif in ancient Greek thought, where the gods were seen as capricious and often envious of human accomplishments.

One of the most famous examples of the theme of divine jealousy in Greek mythology is the story of Prometheus, who incurred the wrath of Zeus by giving fire to humanity. The gods, particularly Zeus, were frequently depicted as possessive and easily provoked to jealousy when humans achieved greatness or attempted to elevate themselves to the level of the divine. Herodotus's quote can be seen as echoing this mythological tradition, cautioning against the dangers of arousing divine envy through excessive ambition or success.

In the broader context of Herodotus's historical writings, this quote reflects his interest in the moral and ethical dimensions of human behavior and its consequences. Herodotus was not only concerned with recounting historical events but also with examining the underlying causes and motivations behind them. His work often delves into the complexities of human nature, including the dynamics of power, ambition, and the pursuit of glory.

This quote may also be understood as a reflection of the broader Greek philosophical and ethical tradition, which emphasized the importance of moderation, self-awareness, and an acknowledgment of human limitations. In this light, Herodotus's cautionary words about the jealousy of the gods can be seen as a reminder of the need for humility and an awareness of the potential pitfalls of unchecked ambition.

In conclusion, the quote "But I like not these great success of yours; for I know how jealous are the gods" encapsulates Herodotus's nuanced understanding of the relationship between human achievement and divine influence. It serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of excessive pride and ambition, drawing on ancient Greek beliefs about the capricious nature of the gods and their propensity for jealousy. Herodotus's work continues to be studied and appreciated for its insights into the complexities of human experience and the enduring relevance of its moral and ethical reflections.