Ancients on Self-Defense

Seneca the Younger on Responsibility

A sword never kills anybody; it is a tool in the killer's hand.

-- Lucius Annaeus Seneca, c. 4 B.C.E. - 65 A.D.

Jesus on Self-Defense

He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one.

-- the Bible, Luke 22:36.