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372 VAJJĀLAGGAM
1690_690) High position is obtained by dint of virtues; hence virtues must necessarily be obtained (cultivated) (by a person).. For even a necklace, if it is devoid of guņa [(i) virtue (ii) string]; does not at all attain to the high status of dangling andi rolling on a young lady's bosom.
691) What can a virtuous man do in the case of one who is devoid of virtues, even though the virtuous man may be standing by his side ? Even though a lamp may be held in his hand by a person blind from birth (i.e. by an absolutely blind person), it.serves no purpose at all (it is useless for him).
692) Those men have no reason to feel sorry even when they leave this world and go to the other world, in whose case their descendants live by the enthusiasm created in them (or by: the inspiration given to them) by (the memory of) their virtues.
77. The Section on Censure (condemnation) of Virtues
693) What can be done in the case of a master, as in the case of a pearl, though possessed of many (other) good qualities,
he master is impervious to the appeal of virtues (in his servants) and the pearl is devoid of perforation (Qazlea)? Where the needle does not enter, there virtues (strings or threads-jury remain outside.
694) The pearl-necklace, cast away (by the lady) at the time of amorous dalliance with the dear consort, thought to itself thus: "Even those possessed of virtues (woven on strings or threads) are kept outside when it is not the proper time for them".
695) Far better it is to be devoid of virtues in the case of those, who have the pleasure of having secured a new master. (For) people possessed of virtues, if they do not get a reward commensurate with their virtues '(sterlirg worth), are distressed (disappointed).
696) Oh you, who are devoid of virtues, give us your lack of virtues in exchange for our virtues. What is to be done ? (How can that be helped?). In this present kali age, masters are not won over by virtues.
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