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204
Padma Purana
Wise men are not disturbed by the words of ordinary people, just as an elephant is not ashamed by the barking of a dog. ||30||
This strange world, which is constantly changing like waves, is addicted to talking about the faults of others. Its own soul will control it. ||31||
A foolish man who wants to destroy the moon by digging up a stone will undoubtedly destroy himself. ||32||
A wicked man who is eager to gossip and cannot tolerate the virtues of others will surely meet with misfortune. ||33||
Then Balarama said, "Lakshmana, what you are saying is true, and your impartial wisdom is commendable. ||34||
But there is no fault to be seen in a pure-minded man who abandons actions that are against the welfare of the world. On the contrary, his virtues are evident. ||35||
What happiness can there be in the world for a man whose directions are engulfed in flames of slander? What hope can he have for life? ||36||
What is the use of a purpose that creates misfortune? What is the benefit of a medicine that contains poison? And what is the use of strength that does not protect creatures who are in fear? ||37||
There is no purpose in a character that does not make the soul strive for its own good, and what is the benefit of knowledge that does not lead to the knowledge of the spiritual realm? ||38||
The birth of a man whose virtuous wife is taken away by a powerful slander is not considered good. It would be better for him to die. ||39||
Let there be public criticism, even if it is a great fault of mine. I brought Sita back home after she was taken away by another man. ||40||
Sita lived in the garden of the demon's palace for a long time. The messengers, who spoke vile words, begged her for what they desired. Ravana, who was present in the nearby land, looked at her with evil eyes many times and spoke to her as he pleased. ||41||
How can I not be ashamed, or how can it be difficult for fools to bring such a Sita back home? ||43||
It speaks of its own reality. In reality, the true nature of a thing is sufficient for its reality, not its external appearance. ||26||