RULE LX VIII.
A fisherman, unassisted by destiny, could not catch a fish in the Tigris; and the fish, without fate, could not have died on the dry land. The covetous man explores the whole world in pursuit of a subsistence, and fate is close at his heels.
RULE LXIX.
A wicked rich man is a clod of earth gilded; and a pious Durwesh is a beauty soiled with earth: this wears the patched garment of Moses, and that has the ulcer of Pharaoh covered with jewels.
The virtuous man, under adversity, preserves a cheerful countenance; but the wicked man, in prosperity, holds down his head. Whosoever possesses rank and wealth, and relieves not those who are in distress, inform him that in the next world he will find neither dignity nor riches.
RULE LXX.
The envious man begrudgeth the bountiful goodness of God, and is inimical to those who are innocent.
I heard a little fellow, with dry brains, speaking disrespectfully of a person of rank: I said. "0 Sir, if you are unfortunate, what crime have fortunate men committed? " Wish not ill to the envious man, for the unfortunate wretch is a calamity to himself. Where is the need of your showing enmity towards him who has such an adversary at liis heels.
RULE LXXI.
A student without inclination, is a lover without money; a traveller without observation, is a bird without wings; a learned man without works, is a tree without fruit; and a devotee without Knowledge, is a house without a door.
The Koran was revealed that men might learn good morals, and not that they should recite the written sections. The unlettered religions man is a foot-traveller, whilst the negligent learned man is a sleeping rider. A sinner who lifts up his hands in prayer, is better than a devotee who exalts his head. A military officer, who is good natured and courteous, is better than an oppressive lawyer.
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