Java and Sicily: two islands, one soul

 

Andrea and Irwan are two friends who met in Indonesia, specifically in the western part of Java, and both of their names reflect their nobility of spirit and their courage. However, Andrea is a young Italian recent graduate originally from Sicily, an island in the Mediterranean, who decides to venture into other countries far from his homeland, now weary of the excessive worldliness and the moral decadence typical of many “Western countries,” which for decades have begun to distort even Sicilian youth.

Yet Sicily in the past has always been a crossroads of cultures that produced a grand fusion of architectural, linguistic, genetic, and culinary elements.

On the splendid island of Java, he began his work and volunteer activities, rediscovering himself in serving others and in creating deep connections with the local people, especially with the Sundanese ethnic group, to which Irwan belongs. Andrea meets him during an excursion to Cukang Taneuh, a marvellous canyon, characterised by emerald-coloured waters and dense tropical vegetation.

Over time the two come to know each other better, and Irwan, who is in love with Italy, learns through Andrea several things about the beautiful island, which he then decides to visit together with his Sicilian friend.

One late-summer afternoon the two friends find themselves on one of the beaches of southern Sicily and, while waiting for the sunset and the contemplation of the stars, they begin to retrace their adventures on these two splendid islands.

“Andrea, I never imagined that the Mediterranean held such a wonderful jewel! You know, I have always loved traveling, but it is not easy for us… Obtaining a visa is something difficult and very restrictive.”

“Irwan, you are right, and I would add that there should not be differences between nations. There are no first-class or second-class countries, none better than others, because our diversity is what makes us special. Yet it is within this diversity that we must find Unity, the feeling of being like a Great Universal Family, with equal opportunities, dignity, and an inner, spiritual aspect, if we wish to understand it that way. I am sure that a day will come when we will be able to travel without restrictions, not only here on Earth but even toward other worlds… I almost have the impression that we are confined to this planet as some of the worst beings in the Universe… Who would wage war against his own brother or sister for a piece of land, for natural resources, for money or, worse, out of hatred? But that Golden Age will come, and then we will be happy again, living in Love, Peace, and Justice.”

“I would not want to delude myself too much, because this Earth actually has so many wonders that we often fail to realise it. In fact, we are destroying all the beauties of creation and the works of past civilisations. I would never have imagined visiting Sicily, and with you I have been able to discover wonderful places.”

“You are right, we must give value to the precious things we have before it is too late, before we lose them forever because of our destructive madness. Anyway, tell me what you liked the most! I am truly curious!”

“The Greco-Roman culture that has left an indelible mark on this island. The Ancient-Greek temples of Agrigento, the Ancient-Greek theatres of Taormina, Catania, and Syracuse, the Roman Villa del Casale in Piazza Armerina, the Roman baths of Catania…”

“Truly wonderful, and you know how much I love classical Greco-Roman culture! You just reminded me of the splendid temples of Borobudur and Prambanan in magnificent Java! You see, both of our islands are characterised by a blending of elements from various cultures, religions, and civilisations…”

“And not to mention Mount Etna, immense and majestic, rising almost like the king of this island. I cannot imagine how beautiful it must be to see it in winter covered in snow. Then Stromboli, Vulcano and the other Aeolian islets, then the Egadi Islands, Pantelleria… what a marvel!”

“In fact, Java also boasts several volcanoes that I have had the chance to see and from which I could observe breathtaking landscapes: Bromo and Semeru, for example! Even this volcanic aspect, let’s call it that, brings us together hahaha.”

“Hahaha, that’s true! I had not thought of that! In our diversity and in our spatial and temporal distance we can still find elements in common! And then there are our beautiful beaches, like the one we are on now. Rediscovering nature is something many people have lost, immersed in the worries and anxieties of everyday life, emptied of their deepest feelings, often devoted to exhausting work and very little to personal affections and to their own souls…”

“You are right, Irwan, and that is why I wanted to escape from that chaotic environment, even though I missed my beloved homeland. Now I am here, but soon we will leave again and I already know that I will miss it. Every place that I associate with my youth takes me back and makes me relive intense emotions. Not that I do not feel them in wonderful Java, but it is somewhat the destiny of the human being: a wandering traveler who seeks to rediscover himself first of all, almost driven by a sense of dissatisfaction. Even more so in these recent times, so tumultuous and decadent, in which most people here tend to be superficial and lacking in empathy.”

“Andrea, it is true, and even true and virtuous friendships are difficult to find nowadays… I feel so fortunate to have met you, to have a few best friends but loyal ones.”

“Virtuous—you said it well! You reminded me of Cicero and his work dedicated to the theme of friendship. His words echo in my heart, especially when I find sincere and deep friendships. For this great philosopher, true friendship is born from Virtue; it is a natural good, it never asks for unjust actions, and it is based on loyalty and mutual esteem. May ours last forever, even beyond this earthly dimension. As the saying goes, he who finds a friend finds a treasure.”

“True, what a beautiful expression! I hope so too. Thank you for not having prejudices about me.”

“Irwan, I love to look into hearts, into the soul, through actions, the way one behaves, words, and much more! You and your wonderful Indonesian people have an extraordinary depth of spirit: you are respectful, loving, wise, and welcoming. I truly feel at home with you, at ease. I already know that I will miss this experience when I will probably have to go elsewhere in the world.”

“You Sicilians are also very empathetic and friendly! And imagine if we could move around more easily and quickly… it would be wonderful, Andrea!”

“It will happen, I feel it…”

“I hope… Anyway, what a wonderful sunset! I will carry beautiful memories of this journey, besides the kilos I gained here thanks to your delicious Sicilian and Italian cuisine hahaha.”

“Hahaha, you are right. Other friends who visited Sicily told me the same thing. But do not worry, we will try to recreate something once we are back in Java. Besides, your cuisine is also truly delicious. Rice is present in both: between nasi goreng and arancini, hahaha.”

“Hahaha, true, you are right. They are delicious! Actually, speaking of that, we should start thinking about what to prepare for dinner tonight—but in the meantime let us begin to admire the first stars that are appearing.”

The two friends continued spending time on that beach, contemplating the sky and the stars and enjoying their outer and inner peace.

Both journeys and the discoveries of their respective islands were a source of cultural and spiritual enrichment, because what truly characterises all those souls that vibrate on the same wavelength is the creation of connections, of deep unions that transcend space and time, that bring forth Peace, Equality, Love, Justice, and Righteousness. It does not matter how few such cases may seem, because the Universal Order will sooner or later manifest itself on this Earth as well, and then there will be no more inequalities, chaos, hatred, wars, destruction, or vice.

Eternal Triumph of Virtuous Souls in Cicero and Dante

The allure of the heavens and the destiny of the virtuous have fascinated minds across epochs. Cicero, in the Somnium Scipionis from his De Republica, and Dante, in his Divina Commedia, particularly in Paradiso, offer two sublime visions of the celestial realms where souls reside in triumph. Separated by centuries and cultural milieus, these masterpieces converge in their portrayal of an ethereal ascent and the eternal rewards for virtuous lives. Their synergy illuminates humanity’s quest for meaning, painting a vivid tapestry of cosmic harmony and moral order.

Cicero’s Somnium Scipionis portrays a universe meticulously structured in nine concentric spheres, as described in a dream experienced by Scipio Aemilianus. Transported to the heavens, Scipio converses with his ancestor, Scipio Africanus, who unveils the structure of the cosmos and the destiny awaiting the just. The outermost sphere contains the eternal orbits of stars, symbolizing the divine realm. Within this structure, seven planetary spheres rotate in the opposite direction of the heavens, culminating in the Moon, the lowest celestial body. At the very center lies Earth, immobile and transient, representing the realm of mortality. The harmonious order of these spheres reflects a cosmic music—a divine melody inaudible to human ears yet signifying balance and reason.

Africanus emphasizes that the virtuous, particularly those who dedicate themselves to civic duty, ascend to the Milky Way, a celestial residence symbolizing eternal glory. This vision exalts Stoic ideals, aligning virtuous living with universal harmony and portraying immortality as the reward for selfless contribution to the greater good. The grandeur of this cosmic perspective inspires contemplation of eternity and humanity’s place within a vast, ordered universe.

In contrast, Dante’s Paradiso presents a Christian cosmos, where the ascent through the celestial spheres reflects the soul’s journey toward Divine Proximity. Each of Dante’s ten spheres is governed by angelic orders and inhabited by souls whose earthly lives exemplified specific virtues. Guided by Beatrice, Dante encounters radiant spirits who reveal the interplay between Divine Grace and human free will, culminating in a vision of God within the Empyrean—the realm beyond physical existence, where divine perfection reigns.

The celestial hierarchy in Paradiso begins with the Moon, where souls who faltered in their vows reside. Subsequent spheres ascend through Mercury (ambitious spirits), Venus (spirits of love), and the Sun (luminaries of wisdom, such as Thomas Aquinas). Mars honors warriors for the faith, while Jupiter celebrates the just, and Saturn hosts contemplative spirits. The eighth sphere, the Fixed Stars, symbolizes divine goodness, leading to the Primum Mobile, the source of all motion, and finally the Empyrean, where ultimate communion with the Divine occurs. Each sphere reflects increasing alignment with God’s will, illustrating a moral order that ties earthly virtue to celestial reward.

While both Cicero and Dante extol virtue as the pathway to transcendence, their frameworks diverge significantly. Cicero’s Stoicism prioritizes reason and civic virtue, emphasizing the impersonal harmony of the cosmos. In contrast, Dante’s Christian theology celebrates Divine Love and Grace as essential to salvation, portraying the heavens as radiant and infused with joy. For Cicero, immortality is a reward for public service and adherence to reason, while for Dante, it is the soul’s ultimate fulfillment in intimate communion with the Divine.

Despite these differences, both works share a profound reverence for the virtuous soul’s ascent. Cicero’s Milky Way and Dante’s luminous spheres inspire awe, inviting readers to transcend temporal concerns and align their lives with higher ideals. The rational harmony of Cicero’s cosmos and the luminous beauty of Dante’s heavens reflect humanity’s eternal quest for meaning, bridging philosophy and faith.

The celestial visions of Cicero and Dante are more than depictions of the afterlife; they are meditations on the human condition. They challenge us to ponder our own paths—to live lives guided by Virtue, Wisdom, and Love—and to imagine the triumph awaiting the soul that soars beyond temporal confines. These masterpieces remind us that the ultimate journey is one of transcendence, unity, and purpose within the infinite expanse of the cosmos.

 

References

http://www.gianfrancobertagni.it/materiali/filosofiaantica/scipione.pdf)

https://resources.saylor.org/wwwresources/archived/site/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Engl4094.1.6.pdf

Cicero’s vision of Friendship: A bond forged by Virtue and Loyalty

Friendship stands as one of the most profound and essential aspects of human life. According to Cicero in Laelius de Amicitia, friendship is not a product of mere convenience but a reflection of shared virtue and moral excellence. It is, as Cicero describes, “a relation absolutely indispensable” to the human experience (86). Through his dialogue, Cicero delineates the principles, challenges, and transcendent nature of true friendship, offering insights that resonate across centuries.

Friendship and Honor: The First Law

Cicero establishes honor as the cornerstone of true friendship. He argues, “Ask of friends only what is honorable; do for friends only what is honorable and without even waiting to be asked” (44). In this ideal, there is no place for deceit or dishonor. A genuine friend does not demand wrongful acts nor succumbs to ignoble requests. Instead, friends inspire each other to act with integrity, exemplifying moral courage even in difficult times.

Cicero emphasizes that loyalty and honesty are paramount. True friendship, he asserts, “cannot exist except among good men” (65). Such friendships are forged on the shared pursuit of virtue, where trust and mutual respect are never compromised.

The role of Virtue in Friendship

At the heart of Cicero’s philosophy is the belief that virtue creates and sustains true friendship. He writes, “Virtue, I say, both creates the bond of friendship and preserves it” (100). Virtue fosters harmony, fidelity, and permanence, enabling friends to support and elevate one another. For Cicero, the joy of friendship lies in its intrinsic value rather than any material benefits it may bring: “It is not the case, therefore, that friendship attends upon advantage, but, on the contrary, that advantage attends upon friendship” (51).

This view challenges the utilitarian notion of friendship as a means to an end. Cicero warns that those who see friends as mere tools for personal gain, much like cattle, fail to grasp the true essence of friendship (79). Instead, the purest friendships arise from mutual admiration and love, untouched by selfish motives.

The challenges of Loyalty

Loyalty is a recurring theme in Cicero’s discourse, as he considers it the bedrock of steadfast friendships. He observes, “Most men are convicted of fickleness: they either hold a friend of little value when their own affairs are prosperous, or they abandon him when his are adverse” (64). In adversity, the faithful friend proves their worth, while the unfaithful one reveals their true character.

Cicero extols unwavering loyalty as a divine quality, stating, “Whoever … has shown himself staunch, immovable, and firm in friendship ought to be considered to belong to that class of men which is exceedingly rare — aye, almost divine” (64).

To nurture loyalty, Cicero advises against suspicion and gossip, warning, “A friend must neither take pleasure in bringing charges against you nor believe them when made by others” (65). Loyalty is further strengthened by transparency, kindness, and shared understanding.

Old friendships and new bonds

While Cicero celebrates the value of long-standing friendships, comparing them to well-aged wine, he also recognizes the potential in new relationships. He states, “The oldest friendships ought to be the most delightful” but adds, “New friendships are not to be scorned if they offer hope of bearing fruit” (67-68).

Nevertheless, he cautions against abandoning the richness of old bonds for the allure of novelty. Habit and time deepen the connection between friends, making older friendships particularly resilient and rewarding.

Honest advice: The pillar of Friendship

One of the defining characteristics of true friendship, according to Cicero, is the ability to give and receive honest advice. He asserts, “It is characteristic of true friendship both to give and to receive advice … to give it with all freedom of speech, but without harshness, and to receive it patiently, but without resentment” (91).

Cicero warns against flattery, which he brands as the vice of insincere and fickle individuals: “Flattery … deserves to be branded as a vice peculiar to fickle and false-hearted men who say everything with a view to pleasure and nothing with a view to truth” (91). While candor may occasionally lead to discomfort, it ensures the integrity of the friendship.

The Universal Need for Friendship

For Cicero, friendship fulfills a profound and universal human need. He writes, “Nature, loving nothing solitary, always strives for some sort of support, and man’s best support is a very dear friend” (88). Friendship enriches every aspect of life, offering companionship and solace even in the most challenging circumstances.

Reflecting on human nature, Cicero asserts that even the most isolated individuals, like the misanthropic Timon of Athens, require someone to share their thoughts and emotions. He illustrates this point with a vivid metaphor: “If a man should ascend alone into heaven and behold clearly the structure of the universe … there would be no pleasure for him in the awe-inspiring sight, which would have filled him with delight if he had had someone to whom he could describe what he had seen” (88).

Conclusion: Friendship as a Divine Connection

In Cicero’s vision, friendship is more than a relationship—it is a reflection of humanity’s highest virtues. He concludes, “Love is nothing other than the great esteem and affection felt for him who inspires that sentiment, and it is not sought because of material need or for the sake of material gain” (100).

True friendship, forged in virtue and sustained by loyalty, is both a gift and a responsibility. It is an enduring bond that enriches the soul, elevates the spirit, and brings profound joy to life. As Cicero eloquently states, “Without friendship, life is no life at all” (86).

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References:

Cicero. Laelius De Amicitia. Published in the Loeb Classical Library, 1923.