Truth relates to the presentation or knowledge of the actual state of affairs; we can interpret truth as being a realization of the state as is and the particular relation of ideas and entities. Following the Stoic doctrine of differentiation between things in and outside of personal control we can argue that a man who realizes that he cannot lay claim over external things is more aware of the truth as opposed to a man who attempts to manipulate his fortune.  A man who curses the gods or others when he is overcome by misfortune is ignorant to the true state of affairs: that he is only in control of his own actions, decisions and judgments, and that anything else, including weather, the stock market or the reckless driving of others, must remain indifferent to us, as we have and can gain no control over it.

Appropriate to this frame of reference is the notion of treating people justly on the basis of responsibility. If for example a friend happens to lose control over another’s car during a snow storm and the vehicle is destroyed, the owner can find no fault in the friend, and must not judge him harshly or rebuke his ties of fellowship, but must accept the state of affairs as indifferent to him. Furthermore, if that same man is deceived by his mate he cannot blame himself for the actions of another – for he had no control in that regard. A man who is thrown into a rage upon learning that his car had been scratched is not behaving justly; he has yet to grasp the true nature of ownership over his car (which is none) and is acting out of ignorance. Yet justice is not limited in simply tempering the spirit against what the world afflicts against us but also guides how we act toward others. If this same man were to come across a wounded stranger on the side of the road, he must realize that it is truthfully within his power to act in his aid and that indecision or indifference will result in the death of the man. We might argue the criteria for an ethical or unethical resolution in his matter, but we must agree that responding will be measured in justice, as individual actions fall within the realm of personal control.

As with all other more esoteric contemplations of truth: Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent.