Hitopadesa

Is anyone simply by birth to be applauded or punished?

— Hitopadesa

No one should form an acquaintance with one who has an evil character. A piece of coal, if it is hot burns, and if it's cold, blackens the hands.

— Hitopadesa

What ever is the natural propensity of a person is hard to overcome. If a dog were made a king, he would still gnaw at his shoes laces.

— Hitopadesa

In time of danger it is proper to be alarmed until danger be near at hand; but when we perceive that danger is near, we should oppose it as if we were not afraid.

— Hitopadesa

The people of the world having once been deceived, suspect deceit in truth itself.

— Hitopadesa

No man should ever display his bravery unless he is prepared for battle, nor bear the marks of defiance, until he has experienced the abilities of his enemy.

— Hitopadesa

A store of grain, Oh king is the best of treasures. A gem put in your mouth will not support life.

— Hitopadesa

The mind is lowered through association with inferiors. With equals it attains equality; and with superiors, superiority.

— Hitopadesa

Greatness does not approach him who is forever looking down.

— Hitopadesa

Learning is a livelihood.

— Hitopadesa

That one is learned who has reduced his learning to practice.

— Hitopadesa

No wise person should make known the loss of fortune, any malpractice in their house, his being cheated, or having been disgraced.

— Hitopadesa

When a husband is embraced without affection, there must be some reason for it.

— Hitopadesa

She is a wife who is the soul of her husband.

— Hitopadesa

When the leader passes over all alike, not making a distinction, then the endeavors of those who are capable of exertion are entirely lost.

— Hitopadesa

One should not lift the rod against our enemies upon the private information of another.

— Hitopadesa

Subdue fate by exerting human strength to the maximum; and if, when the effort has been made and success is not achieved, no one else can be blamed.

— Hitopadesa

Youth, abundant wealth, high birth, and inexperience, are, each of them a source of ruin. What then must be the fate of those in whom all four are combined.

— Hitopadesa