A verse on how knowledge is passed from generation to generation.
From chapter 7, “Having Children.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
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A verse on how knowledge is passed from generation to generation.
61
Of all we may have we know nothing higher than having
Children with knowledge
பெறுமவற்றுள் யாமறிவது இல்லை அறிவறிந்த
மக்கட்பேறு அல்ல பிற
From chapter 7, “Having Children.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
A verse on sharing food with guests and the elixir of immortality.
82
With a guest at the door it is not worth eating
Even the nectar of the gods
விருந்து புறத்ததாத் தானுண்டல் சாவா
மருந்தெனினும் வேண்டற்பாற் றன்று
From chapter 9, “Hospitality.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
A verse on how the pen is indeed mightier than the sword—or a bow and arrow.
872
Oppose those who plow with bows—not those
Who plow with words
வில்லேர் உழவர் பகைகொளினும் கொள்ளற்க
சொல்லேர் உழவர் பகை
From chapter 88, “Knowing an Enemy.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
A verse on hospitality and delicacy.
90
Anicham flowers wilt when smelt—a guest wilts
When a face turns sour
மோப்பக் குழையும் அனிச்சம் முகந்திரிந்து
நோக்கக் குழையும் விருந்து
From chapter 9, “Hospitality.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
A verse on ability and responsibility.
1027
Like the strong-hearted in battle—those able in family
Bear the weight
அமரகத்து வன்கண்ணர் போலத் தமரகத்தும்
ஆற்றுவார் மேற்றே பொறை
From chapter 103, “Serving Family.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston