The Instruction of Plahhotep
The following is simply some excerpts from the instructions of the vizier Plahhotep that show political or religious influence.
Excerpt 1:
If you become a leader, be pleased when you hear the speech of a petitioner. |
Do not rebuff him before his belly is cleansed of what he planned to say to you. |
A victim of wrong desires venting his feelings more than accomplishing what he came for. |
As for one who lets petitions be rebuffed (without a fair hearing), one will say: "Why is it rejected?" |
Never will all that is petitioned for come to pass, |
(but) a good hearing is a soothing of the heart. |
Excerpt 2:
May this servant be commanded to make a 'Staff of old age' (mjw:
an heir),
That I may say to him the words of the judges, the counsel of those from ancient times, heard from the gods. |
That the like may be done for you: May troubles be removed from the People, |
and the Two Shores serve you. |
Thus says the majesty of this god: |
Teach him what was uttered formerly, |
Then he can set a good example for the Children of the Nobles. |