Sage Thiru-valluvar
"The Bard of Universal Man"
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Chapter - 77 : The Excellence of an Army
 

Translation(s)

A conquering host (army), complete in all its limbs, that doesn’t fear wounds, is found chiefest amidst treasures of the king.

Explanation

An army should have all four limbs, is should not be afraid of fighting.

The four are – 1234 – to which are added banners, musical instruments & c.

Translation(s)

To undaunted face the might of conquering foe in adverse hour is bravery that only veteran host (army) can show.

Explanation

Importance of permanent army is referred to here.

Translation(s)

Though like the sea, angry mice send forth their battle cry; What then? The dragon breathes upon them and they die!

Explanation

Numbers and noise are not enough.

Translation(s)

That is host (army), which is not shamed by defeat or by desertion, and is famed for old hereditary courage.

Explanation

Soldiers die for honor – because defeat is not acceptable to them, running away from battle is not acceptable to them, and they must keep up the family tradition of courage. There are several “martial castes” whose hereditary profession is war.

Translation(s)

That is host (army) which joins its ranks and mightily withstands though death with sudden wrath should fall upon its bands.

Explanation

This is an army’s determination and courage to withstand a sudden, bloody, fierce, savage onslaught of the enemy forces.

Translation(s)

To warlike host (army) these four are sure defense: valor with honor, sure advance in glory’s path with confidence.

 

Translation(s)

A valiant army bears the onslaught, goes onwards, well taught with marshaled ranks to meet their coming foe.

Explanation

Importance of well trained troops brought out.

Translation(s)

An army gains applause when well equipped and drilled, though not skilled in offensive or defensive war.

Explanation

[An army may look impressive even though not skilled in / by actual war.]

Translation(s)

The host (army) will gain the victory where weakness, clinging fear, and poverty are not there.

 

Translation(s)

Though men abound, all ready for war; where no fit leaders are there, there is there.

 

Thiruvalluvar Statue
Marina Beach, Chennai, India
Credit: Prankster In Wave, Flickr

References