In This World, There Exist Two Broad Categories of People: False Friends and True Friends

False Friends comprise four types:

1. The Exploiter — one who takes advantage of others for personal gain
2. The Empty Talker — one who is full of words yet void of action
3. The Flatterer — one who offers insincere praise and hollow agreement
4. The Corruptor — one who leads others toward ruin and moral degradation

True Friends comprise four types:

1. The Helpful Friend — one who offers genuine assistance and support
2. The Steadfast Friend — one who shares in both joy and suffering alike
3. The Counsel-giving Friend — one who offers wise and beneficial guidance
4. The Affectionate Friend — one who acts with sincere love and goodwill

The qualities of a True Friend are as follows:

• The Helpful Friend has the courage to serve as a refuge and a source of support for those in need.
• The Steadfast Friend has the courage to sacrifice even their own life for the sake of a companion.
• The Counsel-giving Friend has the courage to speak words that may displease, yet serve to awaken mindfulness — and when such counsel is offered, it must be received with humility and acceptance.
• The Affectionate Friend has the courage to come forward and stand in defence of their companion.