Kural #425
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Tamil text
உலகம் தழீஇய தொட்பம்
மலர்தலும் கூம்பலும் இல்ல தறிவு
Ulakam taḻīiya toṭpam
Malartalum kūmpalum illa taṟivu
English translation
Wisdom embraces the world and remains steady - it neither blooms with praise nor shrinks with blame.
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Explanation
True wisdom encompasses all worldly knowledge yet remains emotionally stable. Like the lotus that stays unaffected by water, the wise person is unmoved by flattery or criticism.
விளக்கம்
அறிவுடையோர் உலகை உணர்ந்து, எதிலும் சமநிலை காப்பர். புகழால் மகிழ்ந்து, இகழால் வருந்த மாட்டார். இது அறிவுடைமை அதிகாரத்தின் முக்கிய கருத்து. மன உறுதி பெறுவதே இதன் நீதி.
Word meanings
- உலகம்ulakamworld
- தழீஇயtaḻīiyaembracing
- ஒட்பம்oṭpamintelligence
- மலர்தலும்malartalumblooming (with joy)
- கூம்பலும்kūmpalumshrinking (with sorrow)
- இல்லதுillatuthat which has not
- அறிவுaṟivuwisdom
Story behind this kural
In a humble village nestled beside a whispering river, lived two potters, Arun and Bala. Arun crafted beautiful, ornate vessels that the King often praised, showering him with gifts. When lauded, Arun would swell with pride, boasting loudly in the marketplace. Bala, however, created simple, sturdy pots for everyday use. Though the villagers appreciated his work, the King rarely noticed him. When criticized for his plain designs, Bala would simply smile and continue his craft. One day, a terrible storm swept through the village, destroying many homes. Arun's elaborate pottery was shattered, and the King's gifts were lost. Arun was devastated. Bala's sturdy pots, however, remained intact, providing shelter for the villagers. He continued to work, providing essential vessels. As the villagers rebuilt, they recognized the true value of Bala's steadfastness. They needed strong, reliable pots, not fleeting beauty.