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Kural #265

Virtue· அறம்Penance· தவம்

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Tamil text

வேண்டிய வேண்டியாங் கெய்தலால்

செய்தவம் ஈண்டு முயலப் படும்

Vēṇṭiya vēṇṭiyāṅ keytalāl

Ceytavam īṇṭu muyalap paṭum

English translation

Because one obtains whatever one desires through penance, it should be earnestly practiced here and now.

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Explanation

The fruit of penance is the fulfillment of all desires. This power to manifest one's wishes should motivate us to practice austerity diligently in this very life, without delay.

விளக்கம்

தவம் செய்தால் நினைத்ததை அடையலாம். அதனால், இந்த உலகத்திலேயே, இப்பொழுதே தவம் செய்ய முயற்சி செய்ய வேண்டும். துறவறம் என்னும் அதிகாரத்தில், ஆசைகளை வென்று நன்மையை அடையலாம் என்பதே கருத்து.

Word meanings

  • வேண்டியvēṇṭiyathat which is desired
  • வேண்டியாங்குvēṇṭiyāṅkuas desired
  • எய்தலால்eytalālbecause of obtaining
  • செய்தவம்ceytavampenance/austerity
  • ஈண்டுīṇṭuhere/in this world
  • முயலப்படும்muyalappaṭumshould be practiced

Story behind this kural

In a village nestled beside a whispering forest lived Elara, a potter known for her exquisite clay creations. She yearned for a kiln that could withstand the fiercest flames, allowing her to craft masterpieces. For years, she’d struggled, her ordinary kiln always cracking. An old sage, observing her diligence, advised Elara to practice *tapas* – a life of focused discipline. Elara, though initially hesitant, followed his words. She rose before dawn, meditating before her work, eating simple meals, and dedicating every piece to a higher purpose. Years passed. The villagers saw her dedication, her unwavering focus. One day, a fierce storm raged. Lightning struck her kiln, yet, miraculously, it did not shatter. When the storm passed, Elara examined her kiln. It stood firm, stronger than ever. Inside, perfectly fired, were the most beautiful pots she had ever created. The village marveled at her skill, but Elara knew the true source of her success.