Sol 6.1

  1. Let no outward show deceive you about what lies within,

    Until proof confirms it for you.

  2. Many an appearance has deceived, though it was counterfeit;

    And often a tongue has deceived hearts.

  3. And the story of Jacob's sons holds a lesson,

    If you understand, O human being.

  4. They spilled blood upon the shirt and demanded

    Vengeance against a wolf guilty of no aggression.

  5. And they wept at nightfall to make their tale seem true,

    And minds receive the light of truth.

  6. And Jacob's heart calls their account a lie:

    For the devouring is doubtful, while the blood is plain to see.

  7. How can a branch be sound when it denies its root?

    There is no possibility for the impossible as it stands.

  8. If they made the shirt's blood their title, perhaps

    The book was sound, but the title was wrong.

  9. For treachery is a trait of souls, so do not trust

    Anyone but yourself, for the trustworthy are betrayed.

  10. Use prudent judgment in dealing with most people you meet,

    For so-and-so's father is so-and-so in deceit.

  11. And if you find a God-fearing man, be content with him;

    One true human being among your intimates suffices you.

  12. Whoever brings a specious argument drawn from slander

    Finds it refuted before him, and the accusation proved false.

  13. His speech revealed the innocence of Joseph's wolf;

    After clear proof has exonerated it, no further proof is needed.

  14. Had that wolf devoured Joseph

    In his cloak, the sleeves would not have remained intact.

Sol 6.1