Thales

Of all things that are, the most ancient is God, for he is uncreated.
The most beautiful is the universe, for it is God’s.
The greatest is space, for it holds all things.
The swiftest is mind, for it speeds everywhere.
The strongest, necessity, for it masters all.
The wisest, time, for it brings everything to light.

Diogenes Laertius attributed this to Thales