46. Avoidance of Base Company

Men of greatness dread base company, 
while the low-minded consider them kinsmen.

As water changes according to the soil through which it flows, 
so a man assimilates the character of his associates.

By knowing his thoughts, a man's mind is discovered.
By knowing his associates, his character is revealed.

Wisdom, appearing to originate in a man's mind,
has its source in his companions.

Purity of mind and purity of conduct--these two
depend upon the purity of a man's companions.

Praiseworthy progeny come to pure-minded men
whose pure companions keep impure deeds away.

Wealth will be bestowed on good-minded men,
and all renown will be granted by good company.

Even perfect men, possessing the mind's full goodness,
are fortified by pious fellowship.

Goodness of mind leads to bliss in the next world, 
and even that is secured by the company of good men.

There exists no greater aid than virtuous fellowship,
and no greater affliction than evil fraternity.