Sage Thiru-valluvar
"The Bard of Universal Man"
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Chapter - 46 : Avoiding Mean Associations
 

Translation(s)

The great of soul will fear mean association. The mean of soul will regard mean men as kinsmen dear.

Explanation

He that will forget God, will also forget his benefactors. (Elizabeth to William Lambarde, 1601)
- Elizabeth I, Queen of England & Ireland, also known as Good Queen Bess, presided over growing empire (1533-1603)

The person who forgets his benefactor is mean.

Translation(s)

The virtues of waters change with soil through which they flow; [similarly] as per a man’s companionship, his wisdom will show.

 

Translation(s)

The value of a man is known by his companionship. The manifold perceptions (about that person) in men are of mind alone.

 

Translation(s)

Man’s wisdom is seems to be the offspring of his mind (but) we find it is outcome of companionship.

Explanation

This is typically Hindu thought about effect of “sangati” or companionship.

Translation(s)

Both, the purity of mind and purity of clear action, draw near to man leaning on a staff of pure companionship.

Explanation

In other words, if a man has pure companions then alone he will have pure mind and pure actions.

Translation(s)

From truly pure-minded men proceeds a virtuous race; to men of pure companionship belong no evil deeds.

Explanation

The meaning is that people having pure company can never commit evil deeds. Their company will prevent it either directly or indirectly.

Translation(s)

Goodness of mind (in a king) increases gain to lives of men and (for this) good companionship obtains all praise.

Explanation

Good companionship deserves the credit and praise.

Translation(s)

Though to perfect men good and right minds belong, yet good companionship is a strong confirmation [of their being perfect men.]

 

Translation(s)

Although to mental goodness belong the joys of other life, yet good companionship is a strong confirmation [that …].

Explanation

Exact meaning is to be checked.

Translation(s)

We know no surer help than good companionship and nothing causes direr woe than bad companionship.

 

At Your Feet'
Thiruvalluvar Memorial (133 Feet, 7000 Tonnes), Kanyakumari,India
Credit: Selvanambi, Flickr

References