What the world's holy books say about work and duty

10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

It is not for thee to finish the work, nor art thou free to desist therefrom

39 And that man hath only that for which he maketh effort, 40 And that his effort will be seen.

Miqdâm reported, The Messenger of Allâh, peace and blessings of Allâh be on him, said: "No one eats better food than that which he eats out of the work of his hand."

Let right deeds be Thy motive, not the fruit which comes from them. And live in action! Labour! Make thine acts Thy piety, casting all self aside, Contemning gain and merit; equable In good or evil: equability Is Yog, is piety!

Do thine allotted task! Work is more excellent than idleness; The body's life proceeds not, lacking work.

166. Let no one forget his own duty for the sake of another's, however great; let a man, after he has discerned his own duty, be always attentive to his duty.

The young man who says, It is too hot; it is too cold; it is too late, by neglecting his business will come to poverty; but he, who disregardful of heat or cold, performs his manly duties, will not cease to be prosperous.

The tree which fills the arms grew from the tiniest sprout; the tower of nine storeys rose from a (small) heap of earth; the journey of a thousand li commenced with a single step.

When the work is done, and one's name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.

The Master said, "A minister, in serving his prince, reverently discharges his duties, and makes his emolument a secondary consideration."

One who works for what he eats, and gives some of what he has - O Nanak, he knows the Path.