Kural #431
Last reviewed:
Tamil text
செருக்குஞ் சினமும் சிறுமையும் இல்லார்
பெருக்கம் பெருமித நீர்த்து
Cerukkuñ ciṉamum ciṟumaiyum illār
Perukkam perumita nīrttu
English translation
The prosperity of those free from pride, anger, and pettiness is truly dignified.
Listen
Explanation
Three major character flaws - arrogance, rage, and small-mindedness - destroy the value of any success. Only wealth earned and maintained without these defects brings true honor.
விளக்கம்
குறள் 431 விளக்கம்: செருக்கு, கோபம், சிறுமனப்பான்மை இல்லாதவர்க்கு செல்வம் சேர்ந்தால் அது பெருமை தரும். குற்றம் கடிதல் அதிகாரத்தில், இக்குணங்களை விட்டால் உயர்வு உண்டாகும் என்பது நீதி. நல்ல குணமே சிறந்த செல்வம்.
Word meanings
- செருக்குcerukkupride/arrogance
- சினம்ciṉamanger
- சிறுமைciṟumaipettiness/meanness
- இல்லார்illārthose without
- பெருக்கம்perukkamprosperity
- பெருமிதperumitadignified/noble
- நீர்த்துnīrttuof that nature
Story behind this kural
In the village of Eldoria, lived three merchants, each prosperous in their own way. Silas, known for his booming voice and quick temper, amassed riches through ruthless deals. His wealth grew, but so did his arrogance, leading villagers to avoid him. Across the square, Elara, whose temper flared at every minor setback, also saw her coffers fill. Yet, her constant rage drove away potential partners, and her prosperity felt hollow. Then there was Finn, whose wealth was modest, but whose kindness was legendary. He treated everyone with respect, never boasting of his success. When a drought struck Eldoria, Finn shared his stores generously, helping everyone. Silas and Elara, consumed by their pride and anger, hoarded their goods, ignoring the plight of their neighbors. When rain finally returned, the villagers celebrated Finn's generosity, rebuilding their lives with his support. Silas and Elara, despite their riches, found themselves isolated and forgotten.