Do not be arrogant relying on the strength of others, nor act boastful. If you truly possess strength, then walk relying on your own power.
In this couplet, the poet plays brilliantly with the word 'bal'—meaning both strength and pride—to deliver a grounded life lesson. He warns against strutting around with arrogance borrowed from the influence or power of others, as borrowed strength is fleeting. True self-respect and dignity lie in standing on your own two feet and charting your course purely on your own merit.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
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