> that's about the stupidest rule I think I've ever heard..

Jazzo

From a western, materialistic perspective you are correct. However, the beauty of the "rule" is that everybody has to play by it - and have done so for four thousand years. The culture has developed where admiration of another's possessions has a whole different set of meanings and consequences. Hence the "rule" is a powerful social tool - and it costs nothing itself. In particular, it discourages materialism whilst encouraging respect for oneself through less tangible aspects.

stales