The hearts of base men burn before the fire of other's fame, and they slander them being themselves unable to rise to such a high position.

What vice could be worse than covetousness? What is more sinful than slander? For one who is truthful, what need is there for austerity? For one who has a clean heart, what is the need for pilgrimage?

There is no disease (so destructive) as lust; no enemy like infatuation; no fire like wrath; and no happiness like spiritual knowledge.

If one has a good disposition, what other virtue is needed? If a man has fame, what is the value of other ornamentation?

Among men the barber is cunning; among birds the crow; among beasts the jackal; and among women, the malin (flower girl).

We should always deal cautiously with fire, water, women, foolish people, serpents, and members of a royal family; for they may, when the occasion presents itself, at once bring about our death.