18. Not Coveting

If a man departing from equity covet the property (of others), at that very time will his family be destroyed and guilt be incurred.

Those who blush at the want of equity will not commit disgraceful acts through desire of the profit that may be gained.

Those who desire the higher pleasures (of heaven) will not act unjustly through desire of the trifling joy. (in this life.)

The wise who have conquered their senses and are free from crime, will not covet (the things of others), with the thought "we are destitute."

What is the advantage of extensive and accurate knowledge if a man through covetousness act senselessly towards all ?

If he, who through desire of the virtue of kindness abides in the domestic state i.e., the path in which it may be obtained, covet (the property of others) and think of evil methods (to obtain it), he will perish.

Desire not the gain of covetousness. In the enjoyment of its fruits there is no glory.

If it is weighed, "what is the indestructibility of wealth," it is freedom from covetousness.

Lakshmi, knowing the manner (in which she may approach) will immediately come to those wise men who, knowing that it is virtue, covet not the property of others.

To covet (the wealth of another) regardless of consequences will bring destruction. That greatness (of mind) which covets not will give victory.