Tirukural

CHAPTER 14

Possession of Virtuous Conduct

131

Virtuous conduct leads a man to eminent greatness. Therefore, it should be guarded as more precious than life itself.§

132

In your striving, be mindful to preserve good conduct. In your deliberations, discover it is your staunchest ally.§

133

Morality is the birthright of high families, while immoral conduct’s legacy is lowly birth.§

134

If a priest forgets the Vedas, he can relearn them. But if he falls from virtue, his high birth is forever lost.§

135

Prosperity is not for the envious, nor is greatness for men of impure conduct.§

136

The firm-minded never slacken in upholding virtuous conduct, for they know the miseries brought on by such neglect.§

137

By honest conduct one achieves honorable eminence, while corrupt conduct brings one nothing but blame.§

138

Good conduct is the seed in virtue’s field; wicked conduct’s harvest is never-ending sorrow.§

139

Men who conduct themselves virtuously are incapable of voicing harmful words, even forgetfully.§

140

Those who cannot live in harmony with the world, though they have learned many things, are still ignorant.§