Integrity

This proverb means that a person's behavior and thinking are dictated by their character and inherent nature. A person with bad intentions will always act according to their devious nature, while a person of noble character will act with dignity and honor, regardless of the situation.

This proverb highlights the importance of focus and integrity. It suggests that once a person loses their moral compass or essential character (Guna), they become blind to the truth and reality around them, just as one might lose awareness of surroundings when a critical strike misses its mark.

This expression emphasizes quality over quantity. It suggests that a small amount of something virtuous, noble, or useful is far superior to a large quantity of something worthless or inferior. It is often used to describe people's character or the value of work.

This expression emphasizes that the true value of a gift lies in the intention and willingness of the giver, rather than the material worth. It is used to suggest that anything given out of love and genuine interest is more significant than a forced or reluctant offering.

This expression refers to a state of equanimity and universal love. It implies that a person who is spiritually enlightened or truly pious sees no distinction between people, treating everyone with the same kindness, impartiality, and sense of belonging, without bias or prejudice.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of verifying facts and ensuring transparency in transactions. It suggests that if someone describes a piece of land to be a certain way, it must be acquired only if it matches that description exactly, warning against deceptive marketing or hidden flaws in deals.

This expression highlights two things that cause significant discomfort: undigested food causes physical pain, while a promise or word that cannot be fulfilled (an impossible commitment) causes mental stress and reputational damage. It is used to caution people against making promises they cannot keep or taking on more than they can handle.

This proverb is used to describe situations where superior or more capable individuals do not stoop down to respond to the noise or provocations of inferior or malicious people. It highlights the difference in dignity and behavior between different classes of people.

While most people struggle to hide their grief, it is considered a sign of true character and maturity to remain humble and composed during times of great success or happiness without boasting. It emphasizes the importance of equanimity (Sthitapragyata).

This proverb emphasizes the power and integrity of a righteous person's words. It suggests that a virtuous person does not easily get angry or use harsh words, but if they do scold someone, it carries the weight of a curse or a serious consequence due to their inherent truth and moral standing. It serves as a warning to be respectful toward noble people.

This proverb emphasizes that speaking the truth might lead to temporary criticism or accusations from others who are uncomfortable with it, but ultimately, the person remains honorable. It suggests that while one might be blamed for being blunt or honest, their character remains untarnished in the long run, unlike the shame that follows a lie.

This proverb emphasizes maintaining one's dignity and self-respect. It suggests that if a person has lived a life of status, prosperity, or high standards (represented by flowers), they should not stoop to a lowly or desperate position (represented by firewood) in the same community. It is often used to advise people to protect their reputation and not settle for less than what they have earned.

This expression suggests that having a clear goal or focus in life naturally leads to discipline and good character. When one is dedicated to a specific purpose, their behavior and attributes align to achieve it.

This proverb is used to describe people of high integrity, status, or specific nature who will never compromise their core principles or dignity, even when facing extreme hardship or desperate situations. Just as a tiger would rather starve than eat grass (which is against its nature), a person of character will not resort to base or unethical actions just to survive.

This proverb emphasizes that habits and character are best formed during childhood. If someone is not disciplined or taught good values when they are young and flexible (like a sapling), they are unlikely to change or improve once they are older and set in their ways (like a sturdy tree). It is commonly used when discussing the importance of early education and discipline.

This proverb is used to point out that someone who lacks character, discipline, or depth cannot understand or appreciate the value of sacred traditions, sacrifices, or high principles. Just as a dog only cares about its next meal and cannot grasp the spiritual purpose of fasting, an ignorant or base person cannot understand noble intentions.

* Una bugia ne tira diect.

This proverb emphasizes the gravity of words spoken by mature individuals. Just as a physical fall can permanently disable a child's future, a person of status or age who speaks carelessly or fails to keep their word loses all respect and credibility in society. It highlights that responsibility and verbal integrity are the foundation of a meaningful life.

This is a famous moral teaching from Vemana Satakam. It suggests that self-control is the greatest virtue. Uncontrolled anger causes harm to oneself more than others, acting as an internal enemy, while maintaining a peaceful and calm composure serves as a shield against life's troubles.

This proverb emphasizes that a person's reputation and status (glory) are directly tied to their conduct and character. If one deviates from their values or loses their integrity, their social standing and respect will naturally decline. It is used to advise someone to maintain their standards to preserve their dignity.

This expression emphasizes that self-respect and dignity are more valuable than life itself. It is used to encourage someone to uphold their integrity and reputation even in the face of extreme adversity or life-threatening situations.