They attacked a caravan in the land of Greece and took away immense wealth.

The merchants cried and lamented and invoked God and the Prophet as intercessors, but it was of no use.

When the dark-souled thief is victorious,

What does he care about the caravan's weeping?!

Luqman the Wise was in that caravan.

One of the caravan members said to him: Perhaps you could give them some advice and a sermon so that they would refrain from some of our wealth, for it is a pity that so much wealth is wasted.

He said: It is a waste to speak words of wisdom to them.

Iron that has been eaten by termites,

Cannot have its rust removed by polishing.

What is the use of preaching to the black-hearted?

An iron nail will not go into stone.

Indeed, the fault is on our side.

In times of prosperity, take care of the broken-hearted,

For mending the heart of the poor will avert misfortune.

When a beggar implores you for something,

Give it, otherwise a tyrant will take it by force.