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Modern interpretation

It is better to reduce contact with someone who acts loving but lacks good character than to let that friendship grow. If a classmate flatters you while pressuring you to cheat, create some distance.

Modern interpretation

There is little value in a friendship that lasts only while someone is gaining from it. If a person messages you only before exams or when they need money, losing that contact is not a real loss.

Modern interpretation

A friendship measured only by profit is just a transaction, no more honorable than a deal driven by payment or theft. If someone joins your group only for rewards and leaves when work begins, do not mistake that for friendship.

Modern interpretation

Being alone is better than relying on people who abandon you when you need them, like an untrained horse throwing its rider. If a teammate disappears before every deadline, working alone may be safer than depending on them.

Modern interpretation

It is better to avoid the friendship of people who cannot protect or support you even after promising to do so. If someone agrees to keep a confidence but immediately shares it, do not entrust them with another one.

Modern interpretation

The opposition of a wise person can help more than the close friendship of a fool. A thoughtful critic who challenges your plan may do you more good than a reckless friend who always agrees.

Modern interpretation

A rival's honest criticism can help more than the friendship of people who only joke and never truly care. If a teammate points out a serious flaw, value that help over empty laughter from a cheerful group.

Modern interpretation

Gradually step back from people who pretend they cannot help and then spoil work they could have done. If a teammate repeatedly avoids their part and causes missed deadlines, stop giving them important tasks.

Modern interpretation

A friendship is deeply troubling when a person's actions never match their promises. If a friend repeatedly says they will support you but abandons you, the uncertainty can follow you even when you are trying to rest.

Modern interpretation

Keep your distance from people who are warm in private but ridicule you in public. If a classmate is kind when you are alone but mocks you in a group, that is not a friendship to protect.