The maxims of ptahhotep or instruction of ptahhotep is an ancient egyptian literary composition based on the vizier ptahhoteps wisdom and experiences the instructions were composed by the vizier ptahhotep during the rule of king izezi of the fifth dynasty. The teachings of ptahhotep the oldest book in the world 1 the teachings of ptahhotep the oldest book in the world paperback hilliard iii asa g editor larry williams editor nia damali editor view the icebreaker videofirst published around 2388 bc fifth kemetic egyptian dynasty under the titleteachings of the prefect of the city . The teachings of ptahhotep the oldest book in the world fpage 9 of 29 if you plough for plants on the margins the god grants it to be great by your hand do not inflate your mouth beside your neighbours to inspire awe by being silent is greater a master of character who is master of wealth he seizes like a crocodile in the council. For a long time it was proclaimed to be the oldest book in the world the instruction of ptah hotep also called the maxims of ptah hotep this was a teaching containing ethics and codes of conduct for boys and young men on how to best behave in the society of that time