One day the devils gathered and began to discuss how they could quickly and easily destroy people. Putting their tails and hooves together, they began to think.
At last there was a movement in the assembly, and all eyes turned to Wrath. He stood up and said:
“I will go and set brother against brother.” I will make people angry at each other, and they will begin to destroy themselves.
Then Lust stood up and said:
“I will bring depravity into the minds of people.” I will instill in them that love is a base feeling, and they will turn into animals.
Shaking her head indignantly, Greed said:
“I will instill in the hearts of people the most destructive of all passions, and uncontrolled desires will destroy them!”
The Twins Gluttony and Drunkenness spoke about their plans: how they would try to make a person’s body sick and stupefy his mind. Envy, Jealousy and Hatred, in turn, spoke about how they intend to destroy a person. Laziness stated that she would assent to the person in everything, and at the same time persuade him not to rush to complete his planned tasks, but to put off until tomorrow what can be done today.
However, the chief was still not satisfied. And everyone turned their gaze to the last assistant, who was still silent. He said:
- I will inspire the person to think carefully about everything!
After these words, everyone present became wary. And the main one demanded:
- Explain your idea! What do you mean?
“I will inspire a person to think about how to do everything with maximum benefit for himself personally,” he answered.
- Here! - the chief exclaimed, and pointedly pointed his index finger at the ground. “You are the closest to our truth.” Selfishness will divide people and we will rule! I appoint you as my deputy!
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru