Page 15 - Śrī Pañcatantra - Eng
P. 15

Preface




           Definitions of Nīti:
           (1) The ability to bring circumstances around to one’s advantage
           and to understand how to obtain maximum benefit from any
           situation that may arise.
           (2) The techniques of avoiding impending catastrophes and of
           living safely.

           (3) The knowledge of what to do and when to do it; and
           conversely what is not to be done.

           (4) The means of knowing who your actual friend is, who your
           adversary is and the proper means of dealing with both.
           (5) The initiative.

           (6) Prudence put into action.

           (7) A very healthy exercise for your brain called thinking.
           (8) The means of building the foundation for the execution of
           bhakti-yoga.

           (9) The understanding of the need to keep devotee association.


           Definitions of Nīti-śāstra:

           (1) Scriptures originally told in Sanskrit that impart the means
           toward greater fulfillment.

           (2) The science of common sense.

           (3) Realized ancient wisdom in a nutshell.
           (4) A compendium of sane advice for young and old alike.



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