Tirukural

CHAPTER 39

The Merits of the King

381

He is lion among kings who is well endowed with these six: army, citizens, wealth, ministers, allies and fortresses.§

382

There are four attributes that cannot be absent in a king: fearlessness, generosity, wisdom and industriousness.§

383

In those who rule the land, three traits must never lapse: vigilance, valor and virtuous learning.§

384

The noble king is unswerving in virtue, restrains wrongdoing and courageously maintains his honor.§

385

He who can produce a treasury of wealth, deposit it, preserve it and apportion it wisely—now, that is a king!§

386

All peoples praise that nation whose sovereign is always accessible and never speaks harshly.§

387

Behold the king who speaks graciously, gives generously and protects powerfully—the world considers his word its command.§

388

Ruling righteously himself and safeguarding his subjects, a monarch may be deemed divine by his people.§

389

The world lives protected beneath the umbrella of an ethical leader who can endure words bitter to the ear.§

390

He is a light among rulers who is endowed with the four merits of generosity, graciousness, justice and care for the people.§