Kural #419
Last reviewed:
Tamil text
நுணங்கிய கேள்வியர் அல்லார்
வணங்கிய வாயினர் ஆதல் அரிது
Nuṇaṅkiya kēḷviyar allār
Vaṇaṅkiya vāyiṉar ātal aritu
English translation
Those without subtle learning will find it difficult to speak with humility.
Listen
Explanation
Deep learning breeds humility. Those who have truly absorbed knowledge through listening speak with graceful modesty. The arrogant display of knowledge indicates shallow learning.
விளக்கம்
நுண்ணிய அறிவுடையோர் பணிவுடன் பேசுவர். கேள்வி ஞானம் இல்லாதவர் அடக்கமின்றிப் பேசுவது கடினம். கற்றலின் முக்கியத்துவத்தை இக்குறள் கூறுகிறது. கேள்வியின் மூலம் அடக்கம் உண்டாகும்.
Word meanings
- நுணங்கியnuṇaṅkiyasubtle/refined
- கேள்வியர்kēḷviyarthose with learning
- அல்லார்allārthose who are not
- வணங்கியvaṇaṅkiyahumble/bowed
- வாயினர்vāyiṉarthose with mouths
- ஆதல்ātalto become
- அரிதுaritudifficult
Story behind this kural
In a bustling village lived two potters, Arun and Bala. Arun, though skilled, boasted of his creations. He’d loudly declare his superior craftsmanship to all who’d listen, pointing out every perceived flaw in others' work. Bala, however, possessed a quiet confidence. He’d carefully study each pot, always seeking improvement, and rarely spoke of his own skills. One day, the King announced a contest for the finest water vessel. Arun presented a brightly painted pot, proclaiming its beauty. Bala presented a simple, unadorned vessel, explaining its perfect balance and functionality. The King examined both. Arun’s pot, though eye-catching, leaked. Bala’s, though plain, held water flawlessly. The King chose Bala’s pot, praising its understated elegance and practical design. Arun, stung by the defeat, grumbled about unfairness. Bala simply smiled, offering to share his knowledge of the potter’s craft.