Four Wisdoms for the Ages

Simon ben Zoma, a 2nd Century scholar, wrote:

 

Who is wise?  He who learns from all people
Who is strong?  He who conquers his evil inclination
Who is rich?  He who is satisfied with his lot
Who is honored?  He who honors others

   - Pirkei Avos [Ethics of the Fathers]

 

 

Centuries later, Benjamin Franklin wrote:

 

Who is wise?  He that learns from every One.
Who is powerful?  He that governs his Passions.
Who is rich?  He that is content.
Who is that?  Nobody.
   - Poor Richard's Almanack, 1755

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