A verse on how the pen is indeed mightier than the sword—or a bow and arrow.
From chapter 88, “Knowing an Enemy.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
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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
A verse on timing, opportunity, and acting without waiting.
489
When the rare moment arrives do what is rare
Without waiting
எய்தற் கரிய தியைந்தக்கால் அந்நிலையே
செய்தற் கரிய செயல்
From chapter 49, “Knowing Time.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston
A verse on clarity before action and right effort.
468
Without right effort all effort miscarries
Even with many who care
ஆற்றின் வருந்தா வருத்தம் பலர்நின்று
போற்றினும் பொத்துப் படும்
From chapter 47, “Clarity Before Action.”
Translated from the Tamil by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma
THE KURAL: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural
Beacon Press, Boston