What does Epictetus mean by stating that our minds are "offshoots" of Universal Reason?

Epictetus refers to minds as "offshoots" of Universal Reason to emphasize the idea that each individual possesses a fragment of a greater rationality that unites all human beings. This concept reflects the Stoic belief that there is a shared rational order in the universe, often referred to as Logos, which guides and connects us all. By seeing our minds as extensions or expressions of this Universal Reason, it suggests that humans are inherently rational creatures and that our capacity for reasoning links us to one another and to the cosmos itself.

This understanding promotes the idea of shared humanity and encourages individuals to live in accordance with this rational framework, fostering harmony and ethical behavior. It highlights our ability to align our thoughts and actions with a greater purpose, reinforcing the Stoic perspective that wisdom comes from understanding our place within this universal order. This interconnectedness implies that while we have individual thoughts and experiences, they are ultimately part of a larger rational structure that binds all people together.