The bird alighteth not on the spread net when it beholds another bird in the snare. Take warning by the misfortunes of others, that others may not take example from you.

But for the cravings of the belly not a bird would have fallen into the snare; nay, nay, the fowler would not have spread his net. The belly is chains to the hands and fetters to the feet. He who is a slave to his belly seldom worships God.

If a gem falls into mud it is still valuable. If dust ascends to heaven, it remains valueless.

Inflict not on an enemy every injury in your power, for he may afterwards become your friend.

The whelp of a wolf must prove a wolf at last, notwithstanding he may be brought up by a man.

Avoid that which an enemy tells you to do; for if you follow his advice, you will smite your, knees with the hand of sorrow. If he shows you a road straight as an arrow, turn from it and go the other way.

A tree, freshly rooted, may be pulled up by one man on his own. Give it time, and it will not be moved, even with a crane