Kural #108
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Tamil text
நன்றி மறப்பது நன்றன்று
நன்றல்லது அன்றே மறப்பது நன்று
Naṉṟi maṟappatu naṉṟaṉṟu
Naṉṟallatu aṉṟē maṟappatu naṉṟu
English translation
It is not good to forget a favor received; but it is good to forget at once any harm done to you.
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Explanation
This kural presents a beautiful contrast in memory. Never forget kindness received - keep gratitude alive. But immediately forget any injury suffered - release resentment quickly. This dual approach leads to a noble, peaceful life.
விளக்கம்
ஒருவர் செய்த உதவியை மறக்கக் கூடாது. அது நல்லதல்ல. ஆனால், ஒருவர் நமக்குத் தீங்கு செய்தால், அதை உடனே மறந்துவிடுவது நல்லது. "செய்ந்நன்றி அறிதல்" அதிகாரத்தில் இது முக்கியம். நன்றி மறவாமல், தீங்கை மன்னித்தால் வாழ்க்கை சிறக்கும்.
Word meanings
- நன்றிnaṉṟifavor/kindness
- மறப்பதுmaṟappatuto forget
- நன்றுnaṉṟugood
- அன்றுaṉṟuis not
- நன்றல்லதுnaṉṟallatuthat which is not good (harm)
- அன்றேaṉṟēimmediately/that very day
Story behind this kural
In a small village nestled beside a whispering river, lived two farmers, Arul and Selvan. Arul was known for his generous heart. When Selvan’s crops failed, Arul shared his harvest, saving Selvan’s family from starvation. Selvan was eternally grateful, always ready to lend a hand to Arul, remembering the kindness. One day, a misunderstanding led to a harsh argument between them. Selvan, in anger, spoke bitter words. Arul, though hurt, did not dwell on the unkindness. He chose to remember the many years of friendship and the help he had received. Years passed. The argument faded, but the memory of Arul’s generosity remained fresh in Selvan's heart. He continued to assist Arul, their bond eventually stronger than before. Selvan, witnessing Arul's forgiving nature, often wondered how he could be so magnanimous.