On Conduct

If thou art one among guests at a table greater than thine own, take what that person gives as it is set before thee. Look at what is set before thee; pierce it not with many glances, for to molest it is an abomination to the spirit. Cast not thine eyes upon it, and be not unseemly. Speak not to that person until he addresses thee; one knows not what may be displeasing to the heart.

If thou art one who enters the house of another, avoid the women of his household. Men are made fools by the lustrous limbs of women, and suddenly love becomes a thing of snares. Those who fail herein are ruined. Even the wise is thrown by a trifle of beauty. One hour of pleasure may bring a moment of ruin that lasts a lifetime; let a man keep himself from temptation.

Tell thy servant of thy concerns, and receive from him instruction. Make not thyself feared of men; that which is gentle and humble is what God loves. He who is mild of heart, the gods give him life. A heart that is good and a spirit that is patient shall overcome that which opposes.