Sage Thiru-valluvar
"The Bard of Universal Man"
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Chapter - 54 : Unforgetfulness
 

Introductory Note

This chapter is about sticking to one’s roots, learning from the past rather than being oblivious of it or ignoring it or forgetting it. Self-oblivious person is one who forgets who he is acts in manner contrary to his station.

Rev. G. U. Pope: “It is ‘Apramada’ of Dhammapad. See translation of this by F. Max Muller, p.9. ‘The absence of giddiness or thoughtlessness which characterizes the state of mind of worldly people’. ”

Translation(s)

It is greater ill if the rapture of overweening gladness to soul brings self-forgetfulness than crossing the limit of wrath control.

Explanation

Lesser ill is becoming excessively angry than self-forgetfulness in moments of gladness.

Translation(s)

Perpetual poverty is death to wisdom of the wise. Similarly self-forgetfulness is death to one’s glory.

 

Translation(s)

Wisdom of every school is decisively summed up in the rule: ‘No praise to self-oblivious man.’

 

Translation(s)

‘To the coward no fort is a defense’. Similarly, the self-oblivious men know no blessing.

 

Translation(s)

To him who does not foresee and does not reckon of anything (which could happen in future), the after woe will shall surely bring repentance.

 

Translation(s)

Be unswerving towards all and remain ever watchful of soul. Where this is found, there is no greater gain.

Explanation

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour."
- Bible, 1 Peter v. 8.

Translation(s)

Though things are deemed arduous, there is nothing that may not be won, when mind’s unslumbering energy and thought is done.

Explanation

This is the typical philosophy of self-improvement movement.

Translation(s)

Let your watchful soul employ things that merit praise. Those who despise these do not attain joy in seven-fold births.

Explanation

"Immediately carry into practice what you learn to be good."
- Confucius, Book 11, Chapter 21

Translation(s)

When exultation overwhelms your bewildered mind, think of the men whom scornful mind has brought to nought (nothing).

 

Translation(s)

It is easy to gain what you have in mind if your mind retains what you have in mind.

 

The Right Foot - Closeup,
Thiruvalluvar Memorial (133 Feet, 7000 Tonnes), Kanyakumari,India
Credit: Kris Kumar, Flickr

References