17. Not Envying

Chapter. 17. Not Envying
Kural-161
As 'strict decorum's' laws, that all men bind,
Let each regard unenvying grace of mind.
Meaning : Let a man esteem that disposition which is free from envy in the same manner as propriety of conduct.
Kural-162
If man can learn to envy none on earth,
'Tis richest gift, -beyond compare its worth.
Meaning : Amongst all attainable excellences there is none equal to that of being free from envy towords others.
Kural-163
Nor wealth nor virtue does that man desire 'tis plain,
Whom others' wealth delights not, feeling envious pain.
Meaning : Of him who instead of rejoicing in the wealth of others, envies it, it will be said "he neither desires virtue not wealth."
Kural-164
The wise through envy break not virtue's laws,
Knowing ill-deeds of foul disgrace the cause.
Meaning : (The wise) knowing the misery that comes from transgression will not through envy commit unrighteous deeds.
Kural-165
Envy they have within! Enough to seat their fate!
Though foemen fail, envy can ruin consummate.
Meaning : To those who cherish envy that is enough. Though free from enemies that (envy) will bring destruction.
Kural-166
Who scans good gifts to others given with envious eye,
His kin, with none to clothe or feed them, surely die.
Meaning : He who is envious at a gift (made to another) will with his relations utterly perish destitute of food and rainment.
Kural-167
From envious man good fortune's goddess turns away,
Grudging him good, and points him out misfortune's prey.
Meaning : Lakshmi envying (the prosperity) of the envious man will depart and introduce him to her sister.
Kural-168
Envy, embodied ill, incomparable bane,
Good fortune slays, and soul consigns to fiery pain.
Meaning : Envy will destroy (a man's) wealth (in his world) and drive him into the pit of fire (in the world to come.)
Kural-169
To men of envious heart, when comes increase of joy,
Or loss to blameless men, the 'why' will thoughtful hearts employ.
Meaning : The wealth of a man of envious mind and the poverty of the righteous will be pondered.
Kural-170
No envious men to large and full felicity attain;
No men from envy free have failed a sure increase to gain.
Meaning : Never have the envious become great; never have those who are free from envy been without greatness.