Psalms of the Brethren CXCIX: Subhuta

A man who yokes himself to things unfit,
Desiring to accomplish work therein,
If seeking he doth not attain, his quest
Doth bear the intrinsic markings of mis — chance.

If he surrender but one [vantage-point]
Of misery’s source] drawn out and overcome,
Like luckless throw of dice his state may be.
But if he throw all [he hath gained] away,
No better is he than a blinded man,
Who sees not if the road be smooth or rough.

Of him who talketh much, but doeth not,
Wise men take stock, and rate him at his worth.

Just as a beauteous flower of lovely hue
But lacking odour, so is uttered word
That barren proves, by action not made good.

Just as a beauteous flower of lovely hue
And fragrant odour, so is uttered word
That fruitful proves, in action holding good.