Ch 08 On Rules For Conduct In Life - Maxim 50 Poem by Saadi Shirazi

A disciple without intention is a lover without money; a traveller without knowledge is a bird without wings; a scholar without practice is a tree without fruit, and a devotee without science is a house without a door. The Qaroon (Korah) was revealed for the acquisition of a good character, not for chanting written chapters. A pious unlettered man is like one who travels on foot, whilst a negligent scholar is like a sleeping rider. A sinner who lifts his hands in supplication is better than a devotee who keeps them proudly on his head.

A good humoured and pleasant military officer
Is superior to a theologian who injures men.

One being asked what a learned man without practice resembled, replied: ‘A bee without honey.’

Say to the rude and unkind bee,
‘At least forbear to sting, if thou givest no honey.’