The Kural or the Maxims of Tiruvalluvar/Chapter 29
CHAPTER 29
ABSTAINING FROM FRAUD
281. Whoso wanteth not to be held in contempt, let him guard himself against every thought of fraud.
282. It is a sin even to say in one's heart, I shall cheat my neighbour of his substance.
283. The fortune that is built up by fraud may appear to thrive ; but it is doomed for ever.
284. The thirst for plunder leadeth in its season to endless grief.
285. Behold the man that coveteth other men's substance and lieth in wait to catch them napping: he thinketh not of grace and love is far from his heart.
286. The man who thirsteth after plunder cannot weigh things aright: nor can he walk in the way of righteousness.
287. Behold the man that hath weighed the things of this world and made his heart firm : he committeth not the folly of cheating his neighbour.
288. As Righteousness resideth in the heart of him who valueth things aright, even so Deceit hath its seat in the heart of the thief.
289. Behold the man who meditateth on nothing but theft and plunder: he will leave the right path and perish.
290. He that deceiveth others is not master even of his own body: but the world of the Gods itself is a never-failing inheritance unto the men that are righteous.
