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Remember: it is not given to man to take his goods with him. No one goes away and then comes back. — The Song of the Harper · 2600 BCDo not set your heart on wealth… Do not strain to seek increase, What you have, let it suffice you. If riches come by theft, They will not stay the night with you…. They made themselves wings like geese, And flew away to the sky. — Amenemope · 1075 BCDo not be arrogant because of your knowledge, but confer with the ignorant man as with the learned... Good speech is more hidden than malachite, yet it is found in the possession of women slaves at the millstones. — Ptahhotep · 2375 BCBe cheerful while you are alive. — Ptahhotep · 2375 BCOne who is serious all day will never have a good time, while one who is frivolous all day will never establish a household. — Ptahhotep · 2375 BCCreator uncreated. Sole one, unique one, who traverses eternity, Remote one, with millions under his care; Your splendor is like heaven's splendor. — First Hymn to the Sun God · 1334 BCAll 7 quotes →
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. — Ahiqar · 500 BC
The wisdom of a learned man cometh by opportunity of leisure; and he that hath little business shall become wise. — Ben Sira · 175 BC