An Anecdote: One day Alexander asked one of his sages—he was about to set out on a journey—and said, “Show me a path of wisdom by which I may order my affairs and perfect my deeds.” The chief of the sages replied, “O King, let neither love nor hate for anything take root in your heart, for the heart, true to its name, is so called because it is ever turning (qalb). Put the intellect to work and take it as your minister; make reason your companion and counsellor. Strive to remain alert, and undertake no matter without consultation. Shun bias and favoritism whenever you administer justice and equity. Do this, and affairs will fall in line behind you, and you will dispose of them as you wish. A king must be dignified and forbearing, never reckless or hasty.”
The sages also said: “Three traits are ugly, and in three sorts of people they are ugliest of all: sudden anger in kings, avarice in scholars, and miserliness in the wealthy.”
Another Anecdote: The vizier Yunān wrote to the just king Anūshirwān a letter of counsels and admonitions, saying, “O King of the world, four qualities must remain constantly with you: intellect, justice, patience, and modesty. O King of the age, drive from yourself envy, arrogance, and narrowness of heart—by which I mean stinginess and hostility. Know, O King of the age, that the kings before you have gone, and those who will come after you have not yet arrived. Strive, therefore, that every king in every era may greet you with praise and yearn for your example.”
Another Anecdote: It is said that Anūshirwān once rode out on a spring day for pleasure. He travelled through verdant gardens, gazed at fruit-laden trees, and looked upon flourishing vineyards. Dismounting, he prostrated in gratitude to his Lord, laid his cheek upon the earth, and remained thus for a long time. When he raised his head he said to his companions, “The fertility of the years stems from the justice of rulers and their good intentions toward their subjects. All favour belongs to God Most High, who has manifested the soundness of our intention in every matter.” He spoke thus because experience over time had confirmed it.
Another Anecdote: It is related that the just king Anūshirwān once went out hunting. Having become separated from his army while in pursuit of the game, he saw a village nearby. Thirsty, he made for the village