Integrity

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 is the Telugu equivalent of the 'Three Wise Monkeys' principle. It serves as a moral guideline to avoid evil: do not listen to evil, do not speak evil, and do not see evil. It is used to encourage people to maintain purity of mind and avoid participating in gossip or negativity.

This proverb highlights that one's spiritual merit or success is often dependent on the conduct and integrity of their household or partners. In a traditional context, it implies that the unfaithful or improper actions of a spouse can hinder the spiritual progress or reputation of the other, suggesting that collective righteousness is necessary for individual salvation.

This expression is used to describe an individual's integrity, self-restraint, or discipline. Just as the vast ocean stays within its shores and does not overflow despite its power, a person of character stays within their moral boundaries and principles regardless of circumstances.

This expression highlights the importance of consistency and courage. It suggests that once a person makes a firm decision or takes a bold step toward a goal, retreating due to fear or hesitation is the ultimate sign of weakness or lack of wisdom. It is used to encourage someone to see a task through to the end.

Turning back after putting one's hand to the plough. Fortune lost, nothing lost ; courage lost, much lost ; honour lost, more lost ; soul lost, all lost. (Dutch.)!

This expression emphasizes the importance of integrity and keeping one's word. It suggests that once a promise is made or a statement is uttered, one must stand by it and never retreat from their commitment or resort to lies.

This proverb highlights how different lifestyles require different behaviors to maintain integrity. For a householder (Samsari), constant travel or wandering leads to the neglect of family and responsibilities, leading to ruin. Conversely, a monk (Sanyasi) is expected to wander and preach; if he settles in one place for too long, he may develop worldly attachments or laziness, which ruins his spiritual path.

This expression means that a person's reputation or outward respect depends entirely on their character or the quality of their work. If one's inner worth or standard of work (vasi) declines, their fame and public standing (vanne) will automatically diminish.

This expression emphasizes the immense value and power of discretion. It suggests that someone who can maintain a secret or keep their composure and hidden knowledge under control possesses a level of mastery and wisdom that surpasses even their mentors. It is used to praise someone's ability to be discreet and tight-lipped in critical situations.

This expression is used to advise someone to follow a straightforward, honest, or well-established path instead of resorting to devious, complicated, or risky shortcuts. It emphasizes choosing clarity and integrity over unnecessary complexity or trickery.

This proverb is used to describe something or someone that is of high quality both inside and out. Just as the quality of an onion is determined by its core, the character of a person or the integrity of a thing is judged by its inner essence. It suggests that true quality is consistent throughout.

This proverb highlights the essential nature of self-respect and integrity for an individual. Just as a crop cannot grow healthy or yield results without proper manure/fertilizer, a person (metaphorically referred to as a farmer) cannot truly thrive or lead a meaningful life without honor and social standing.

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 expression is used to highlight the vast difference between a person of low character who uses trickery (మాయలాడువాడు) and a great, noble-hearted person (మహితాత్ముడు). It asserts that no matter how clever a fraudster is, they can never match the stature and purity of a truly virtuous individual.

This proverb emphasizes that preparation and intention are necessary for results. Just as a beggar cannot receive charity without a container to hold it, a person cannot achieve spiritual liberation or success without the right mindset and sincerity. It is often used to highlight that internal readiness is as important as external effort.

This traditional proverb suggests that a well-managed household depends on two main pillars: a disciplined or well-behaved spouse who maintains order, and the practice of saving money or being thrifty. It is used to emphasize the importance of self-control and financial management in achieving domestic harmony and prosperity.

This proverb highlights that even in the most dire or final situations, a person should be given a fair chance to speak or be heard. It is used to suggest that everyone deserves basic respect, due process, or a final opportunity to explain themselves before a decision is finalized.

This expression highlights self-respect and dignity. It means that a person of high stature, great talent, or noble character would rather face great challenges or suffer in silence than stoop to something base, inferior, or dishonorable just for the sake of survival or convenience.

This proverb emphasizes that it is better to serve a noble or powerful person than to be intimately associated with someone of poor character or low status. It suggests that even a subordinate role under a virtuous or strong leader offers more dignity and security than a higher-ranking position with a base or wicked individual.

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.