The good man shuns evil and follows good; he keeps secret that which ought to be hidden; he makes his virtues manifest to all; he does not forsake one in adversity; he gives in season: such are the marks of a worthy friend.
BhartrhariIdleness is a great enemy to mankind. There is no friend like energy, for, if you cultivate that, it will never fail.
BhartrhariThe constant man loses not his virtue in misfortune. A torch may point towards the ground, but its flame will still point upwards.
BhartrhariKindness can turn the bad man's heart, and fools convert to wise, Make poison into nectar-juice, and friends of enemies.
BhartrhariThose from whom we were born have long since departed, and those with whom we grew up exist only in memory. We, too, through the approach of death, become, as it were, trees growing on the sandy bank of a river.
BhartrhariTrees bend low with ripened fruit; clouds hang down with gentle rain; noble people bow graciously. This is the way of generous things.
BhartrhariLet us keep a firm grip upon our money, for without it the whole assembly of virtues are but as blades of grass.
BhartrhariA good man may fall, but he falls like a ball [and rebounds]; the ignoble man falls like a lump of clay.
BhartrhariTrees loaded with fruit are bent down; the clouds when charged with fresh rain hang down near the earth: even so good men are not uplifted through prosperity. Such is the natural character of the liberal.
BhartrhariWhat is the most profitable? Fellowship with the good. What is the worst thing in the world? The society of evil men. What is the greatest loss? Failure in one?s duty. Where is the greatest peace? In truth and righteousness. Who is the hero? The man who subdues his senses. Who is the best beloved? The faithful wife. What is wealth? Knowledge. What is the most perfect happiness? Staying at home.
Bhartrhari