Tirukural

CHAPTER 53

Fellowship of Kindred

521

Should a man’s wealth disappear, only his kinsmen will maintain their customary kindness.§

522

If a man’s kindred cling to him with unfailing love, his fortunes will never fail to flourish.§

523

Pursuing a happy life without mixing with one’s clan is like flooding a pond that has flimsy banks.§

524

The real profit gained by gaining riches is that one may then live surrounded by relatives.§

525

Scores of kin will crowd around the kindly man who gives generously and speaks sweetly.§

526

In this wide world none enjoys a more faithful family than he who hands out large gifts and holds back all anger.§

527

The crow does not conceal his food, but calls his kind to share it; prosperity will remain with men of such a nature.§

528

The multitudes thrive when they observe their monarch observing each one’s merits, not seeing mere sameness in all.§

529

Close kinsmen who have become estranged will come back when the cause of disagreement goes away.§

530

When one who left him returns with justifying reason, the ruler may, after careful reflection, accept him back.§