This quote by Plutarch invites us to reflect deeply on the value we assign to knowledge versus material wealth and power. In our modern society, there is often a strong emphasis placed on external achievements—accumulating wealth, gaining influence, and expanding our possessions. Yet, Plutarch challenges us to prioritize the pursuit of true excellence, which he identifies not with power or material gain, but with the understanding of what is truly excellent. This is a call to focus on inner growth, wisdom, and moral virtue rather than on the superficial trappings of success.

Excellence, in this context, can be interpreted as the highest form of human good—ethical, intellectual, and spiritual achievement that enriches our character and enhances our understanding of the world. Pursuing knowledge of excellence means engaging in a lifelong journey to discern values, make wiser decisions, and cultivate qualities that lead to a meaningful life. Unlike power and possessions, which are transient and often subject to external forces, wisdom and moral excellence provide a stable foundation that shapes our identity and behavior sustainably.

Moreover, this perspective aligns with the idea that true fulfillment comes not from what we have, but from what we understand and embody. It suggests that the essence of a successful life lies in the quality of our inner world rather than the quantity of our external holdings. In a time when social media and consumer culture often equate worth with acquisition, Plutarch's words remind us to seek depth over superficiality and to measure success by the integrity and excellence of our knowledge and actions. This timeless insight encourages us to re-examine our goals and strive for a life enriched by wisdom and virtue.