Kural #5
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Tamil text
இருள்சேர் இருவினையும் சேரா இறைவன்
பொருள்சேர் புகழ்புரிந்தார் மாட்டு
Iruḷcēr iruviṉaiyum cērā iṟaivaṉ
Poruḷcēr pukaḻpurintār māṭṭu
English translation
The darkness of the twin karmas (good and bad) will not cling to those who have truly understood and praised the glory of God.
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Explanation
This kural addresses the concept of karma. Both good and bad actions create bondage through their results. However, those who truly comprehend and glorify God transcend this cycle. Even good karma, when done with ego, binds us. True devotion liberates completely.
விளக்கம்
இக்குறள் கடவுள் வாழ்த்தில் உள்ளது. இறைவனின் புகழை உணர்ந்து துதிப்பவர்களுக்கு நன்மை, தீமை என்ற இரு வினைகளும் சேராது. கடவுள் பக்தி கர்ம வினைகளை நீக்கி விடுதலை தரும்.
Word meanings
- இருள்iruḷdarkness
- சேர்cērjoined with/associated
- இருவினையும்iruviṉaiyumboth karmas (good and bad)
- சேராcērāwill not attach
- இறைவன்iṟaivaṉthe Lord/God
- பொருள்poruḷmeaning/essence
- புகழ்pukaḻglory/praise
- புரிந்தார்purintārthose who have understood
- மாட்டுmāṭṭuupon/towards them
Story behind this kural
In a village nestled beside a whispering forest, lived two brothers, Arun and Bala. Arun was known for his generous deeds, always helping others and donating to the temple. Bala, however, was known for his sharp tongue and petty arguments, though he, too, offered prayers. One day, a terrible storm ravaged the village. Arun worked tirelessly, rebuilding homes and sharing his food. Bala, despite his prayers, grumbled about the damage to his own small shop, complaining about the unfairness of it all. Years passed. Arun’s good deeds brought him respect, but also a subtle pride. He often reminded others of his kindness. Bala, though still prone to complaint, gradually began to see the futility of his ways. He started to focus on helping others without expecting reward, finding joy in simply being of service. Both brothers experienced challenges, yet Arun seemed increasingly burdened, while Bala felt lighter, freer, with each passing day.