Not Envying

Not Envying

1

As 'strict decorum's' laws, that all men bind,

Let each regard unenvying grace of mind.

Meanings :-

Let a man esteem that disposition which is free from envy in the same manner as propriety of conduct.

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2

If man can learn to envy none on earth,

'Tis richest gift, -beyond compare its worth.

Meanings :-

Amongst all attainable excellences there is none equal to that of being free from envy towords others.

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3

Nor wealth nor virtue does that man desire 'tis plain,

Whom others' wealth delights not, feeling envious pain.

Meanings :-

Of him who instead of rejoicing in the wealth of others, envies it, it will be said "he neither desires virtue not wealth."

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4

The wise through envy break not virtue's laws,

Knowing ill-deeds of foul disgrace the cause.

Meanings :-

(The wise) knowing the misery that comes from transgression will not through envy commit unrighteous deeds.

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5

Envy they have within! Enough to seat their fate!

Though foemen fail, envy can ruin consummate.

Meanings :-

To those who cherish envy that is enough. Though free from enemies that (envy) will bring destruction.

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6

Who scans good gifts to others given with envious eye,

His kin, with none to clothe or feed them, surely die.

Meanings :-

He who is envious at a gift (made to another) will with his relations utterly perish destitute of food and rainment.

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7

From envious man good fortune's goddess turns away,

Grudging him good, and points him out misfortune's prey.

Meanings :-

Lakshmi envying (the prosperity) of the envious man will depart and introduce him to her sister.

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8

Envy, embodied ill, incomparable bane,

Good fortune slays, and soul consigns to fiery pain.

Meanings :-

Envy will destroy (a man's) wealth (in his world) and drive him into the pit of fire (in the world to come.)

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9

To men of envious heart, when comes increase of joy,

Or loss to blameless men, the 'why' will thoughtful hearts employ.

Meanings :-

The wealth of a man of envious mind and the poverty of the righteous will be pondered.

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10

No envious men to large and full felicity attain;

No men from envy free have failed a sure increase to gain.

Meanings :-

Never have the envious become great; never have those who are free from envy been without greatness.

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