A prince inherited a vast treasure from his father. He opened his hand in generosity, giving liberally and showering his wealth upon the army and the people.
The scent of aloeswood does not spread from the box, Put it on the fire, and it will smell like ambergris. If you seek greatness, be generous, For a seed will not grow unless it is sown.
One of his imprudent courtiers began to advise him, saying, “The previous kings accumulated this wealth through effort and kept it for a reason. Stop this spending, for there are events ahead and enemies behind; you should not be left wanting in times of need.”
If you distribute a treasure among the common people, Every headman will receive a share. Why not take a bit of silver from each, So that you always have a treasure at hand?
The prince frowned at this advice and rebuked him, saying, “God, the Exalted, has made me the ruler of this kingdom to eat and give, not to guard and hoard.”
Korah perished with forty houses of treasure, But Nushirvan did not die, for he left a good name.
