Collections on Ethics for All People

A small decorative floral ornament consisting of leaves and a central bloom, centered at the top of the page above the title.

Warning against Lust.

To resist the lure of lust—
Youth, if you love happiness and life,
Let this be your daily wisdom.
Flee from flattering desire;
It robs you of your heart's ornament, original: "des Herzens Zierde." In the moral language of the time, this refers to one's inner purity, honor, or virtue.
And its joys turn into pain.

So as not to increase its nourishment,
Never let food and drink weigh down your heart
And be a friend to sobriety.
To conquer yourself,
Frequently deny yourself even permitted pleasures,
And steer your sensuality. The text suggests that "sensuality" (Sinnlichkeit) is like a ship or a horse that must be steered or controlled by the will.

Do not let your eye command you;
And to prevent lust,
Always be modest regarding your own body.
Flee the bold jokes of the shallow wit, original: "Witzling." A derogatory term for someone who thinks they are clever but lacks true wisdom or moral depth.
And seek example, true wit, and pastime
In the company of noble hearts.