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The Oldest Book in the World
The Teachings of Ptahhotep
The Maxims of Ptahhotep
He said unto his son:
“Be not proud with the knowledge you have gained; but hold discussions with the unknowing as well as the wise. There is no end to knowledge, no one knows all.
True speech is better than the most precious stones and is found in the most unlikely of places, such as the women at the grindstone.”
He said unto his son:
“Be not proud because thou art learned; but discourse with the ignorant, as well as with the wise.
For no limit can be set to knowledge, neither is there any artist that possesses talent that is fulfilled.
True speech is more rare than emerald, but it can be found with the women at the grindstone.”
He addressed his son:
“Do not be proud on account of your knowledge, but discuss with the ignorant as well as with the wise.
The limits of knowledge cannot be delivered; and there is no artist whose talent is fulfilled.
Fair speech is more sought after than greenstone, but it can be found with the women at the grindstone.”
He spoke to his son:
“Don’t let your heart get big because of your knowledge. Take counsel with the ignorant as well as with the wise.
The limits of knowledge can not be bought; and no artist is equipped with perfection.
Great discourse is more hidden than gemstones, yet it can be found among the women at the grindstones.”
—Nana Ptahhotep
