It is better wither to be silent, or to say things of more value than silence. Sooner throw a pearl at hazard than an idle or useless word; and do not say a little in many words, but a great deal in a few.

The quote "It is better wither to be silent, or to say things of more value than silence. Sooner throw a pearl at hazard than an idle or useless word; and do not say a little in many words, but a great deal in a few." by Pythagoras emphasizes the importance of speaking thoughtfully and with purpose. Pythagoras suggests that if one cannot offer something meaningful or valuable through speech, it is better to remain silent. Words should be used with care, and speech should add value to a conversation rather than being wasted on trivial or unnecessary comments.

The reference to throwing a pearl at hazard rather than speaking idle words underscores the preciousness of valuable speech. Just as a pearl is rare and valuable, so too should words be—carefully chosen and rich in meaning. Pythagoras contrasts the potential harm of careless or excessive words with the impact of words that are well-considered and impactful. This idea speaks to the ancient Greek appreciation for wisdom and the belief that silence or meaningful speech is often superior to speaking just for the sake of speaking.

The advice to "do not say a little in many words, but a great deal in a few" reflects the ideal of brevity and clarity in communication. Pythagoras encourages people to express themselves concisely and meaningfully, suggesting that speaking succinctly can often convey more than rambling. The quote aligns with Pythagoras' broader philosophical focus on self-discipline and living wisely, both of which are reflected in the thoughtful and deliberate use of speech.

In essence, Pythagoras' quote encourages wisdom in communication. It reminds us that the value of words is not determined by their quantity, but by their quality. By emphasizing the importance of speaking meaningfully and with purpose, it highlights the virtue of thoughtfulness and the idea that silence, when appropriate, is often more valuable than words without substance.