The more cunning and deceitful, the poorer one becomes; Heaven never tolerates such behavior.
This ancient wisdom cuts to the core. Cunning may seem to bring short-term gains, but it traps you in a vicious cycle: poverty erodes integrity, and lost integrity leads to more dishonesty. Mencius said, “One cannot be swayed by poverty or hardship.” When poor, your character is tested most.
Some might say, “Look at that cunning man—he’s still thriving.” But they see only the surface. His fortune may be borrowed from ancestors’ virtues, like a tree shielding him from the storm. When that grace runs out, ruin follows. You witness his wealth, but not his troubled family, broken friendships, or inner unrest. Heaven sees the whole picture, while humans see only fragments.
Thus, in poverty, hold fast to your principles. Do not take shortcuts or betray your conscience. The cosmic law is just and inevitable.