Sage Thiru-valluvar
"The Bard of Universal Man"
Click the links here to read Thirukural in
Hindi,
Arabic, French, Kannada, Konkani, Latin, Malayalam, Marathi, Russian

Chapter - 48 : The Knowledge of Power
 

Translation(s)

Before he goes to war, he should weigh these – the force which the strife demands (requires), the force that he owns, the force of the foes, and the force of friends.

 

Translation(s)

Those who know what can be done based on their knowledge of the means, and go forth with this set firmly on their mind, nothing goes amiss with them.

 

Translation(s)

Ill-deeming of their proper power many monarchs have striven and in middle of unequal conflict have fallen torn asunder.

Explanation

Picture should show a king torn asunder.

Translation(s)

(The king) who does not agree with those around knows no moderations. Indulging in self-applause, he swiftly goes to ruin.

 

Translation(s)

With light peacock feathers you load the wagon; yet, heaped too high, the axle snaps into two.

Explanation

Pic can be a loaded bullock cart with broken axle.

Translation(s)

One, who daringly climbs and would upraise himself beyond the branch’s tip, pays with life forfeited.

 

Translation(s)

Give, with knowledge of measure due and as virtue bids! That is the way to guard your wealth and live seemly.

 

Translation(s)

Incoming may be scant; but yet that is not failure, if you rightly learn to spare in expenditure.

Explanation

I can quote many a financial planners. This is the first principle of financial planning. Does Rich Dad say anything on this?

Translation(s)

One who lives prosperously and knows no bounds in enjoyment, his seeming wealth will depart and shall be found nowhere.

 

Translation(s)

Beneficence that does not measure the bounds of its means, will swiftly bring to nil the wealth on which it leans.

Explanation

The first six couplets are going to war in excess of one’s powers. The last four are about wealth. Over-spending – either on charity or unrestrained enjoyment (read consumption in 21st century world) – will make it disappear. We should learn to keep expenses below our income. In short, do not go beyond your means – either in war or in expenses. First will kill you the second will make you poor. These are not happy endings for men who have been kings.

Thiruvalluvar - Image Engarved in Metal
Credit: Moghan Art Gallery, Flickr

References