80. Investigation in forming Friendships

As those who are of a friendly nature will not forsake (a friend) after once loving (him), there is no evil so great as contracting a friendship without due inquiry.

The friendship contracted by him who has not made repeated inquiry will in the end grieve (him) to death.

Make friendship (with one) after ascertaining (his) character, birth, defects and the whole of one's relations.

The friendship of one who belongs to a (good) family and is afraid of (being charged with) guilt, is worth even purchasing.

You should examine and secure the friendship of those who can speak so as to make you weep over a crime (before its commission) or rebuke you severely (after you have done it) and are able to teach you (the ways of) the world.

Even in ruin there is some good; (for) it is a rod by which one may measure fully (the affection of one's) relations.

It is indead a gain for one to renounce the friendship of fools.

Do not think of things that discourage your mind, nor contract friendship with those who would forsake you in adversity.

The very thought of the friendship of those who have deserted one at the approach of adversity will burn one's mind at the time of death.

Continue to enjoy the friendship of the pure; (but) renounce even with a gift, the friendship of those who do not agree (with the world).