On Worth

1. God constitutes worth, because He is worthier

than everything <else> that exists, and, in the case of man, represents the source

of <the latter’s> natural worth.

 

2. Worth is that which can be employed for the good

and <is> that by which a person conducts himself <well>

and whereby he does not err in any respect.

 

3. He who, by virtue of worth, wishes to be worthy

causes God no displeasure

and acts virtuously to the best of his ability.

 

4. Worth consists in bonifying,

in virtuous understanding and loving,

<and> in mercy and forgiveness.

 

5. Nobody who neglects any duty

can possess <any> worth,

because neglect cannot be of <any> value <whatsoever>.

 

6. No person can procure worth

unless he refrains from misdeeds

and acts as virtuously as he is able.

 

7. Worth enjoys greater value by reason of thoughts

that are humble, faithful, generous (lit. “free”)^[1] and grateful

than it does by reason of relatives or money.

 

8. He who is worthless yet wishes to be of worth,

while persisting in wickedness, can no longer either achieve

<such> worth or attain goodness.

 

9. Worth consists in a good beginning,

a good middle and a good end,

and in such locations it is bestowed forthwith.^[2]

 

10. Nothing is of greater value than worth,

nor is anything of lesser value than a sinner,

for he brings dishonour upon worth.

 

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