When the belly is empty, the body becomes spirit; and when it is full, the spirit becomes body.
SaadiRead
People are crying up the rich and variegated plumage of the peacock, and he is himself blushing at the sight of his ugly feet.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the contrast between outward appearances and inner reality.
Saadi highlights the disparity between how others perceive beauty and success, represented by the peacock's striking plumage, and the underlying insecurities and flaws that the individual may see in themselves, symbolized by the peacock's feet. It serves as a reminder that external admiration does not necessarily align with personal self-acceptance and that people often overlook their own shortcomings while being celebrated for their strengths.
Themes
BeautyPerceptionSelf-AcceptanceAppearanceInsecurity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a conversation about self-esteem and how we perceive ourselves vs. how others see us.
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The bad fortune of the good turns their faces up to heaven; the good fortune of the bad bows their heads down to the earth.
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However much you study, you cannot know without action. A donkey laden with books is neither an intellectual nor a wise man. Empty of essence, what learning has he whether upon him is firewood or book?
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Ants, fighting together, will vanquish the lion.
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An enemy to whom you show kindness becomes your friend, excepting lust, the indulgence of which increases its enmity.
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