Once you start a working on something, don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest.
ChanakyaRead
The serpent, the king, the tiger, the stinging wasp, the small child, the dog owned by other people, and the fool: these seven ought not to be awakened from sleep.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Certain entities should be left undisturbed to avoid trouble or danger.
This quote by Chanakya emphasizes the importance of knowing when to leave certain situations, people, or entities alone to maintain peace and avoid unnecessary conflict. The imagery of various groups, including animals and a fool, suggests that awakening or provoking these entities could lead to adverse consequences, highlighting a wise approach to interactions and respect for boundaries.
Themes
WisdomPeaceConflictBoundariesCaution
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about handling difficult relationships, one might say, 'As Chanakya wisely stated, it's best to let the serpent and the fool sleep.'
More from Chanakya
All quotes βLet not a single day pass without your learning a verse, half a verse, or a fourth of it, or even one letter of it; nor without attending to charity, study and other pious activity.
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The life of an uneducated man is as useless as the tail of a dog which neither covers its rear end, nor protects it from the bites of insects.
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Whoever imposes severe punishment becomes repulsive to the people; while he who awards mild punishment becomes contemptible. But whoever imposes punishment as deserved becomes respectable.
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One whose knowledge is confined to books and whose wealth is in the possession of others, can use neither his knowledge nor wealth when the need for them arises.
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Swans live wherever there is water, and leave the place where water dries up; let not a man act so - and comes and goes as he pleases.
ChanakyaRead
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