Thirukkural

May 23, 2023

Indian Prime Minister along with his Papua New Guinea counterpart recently released the Tamil classic 'Thirukkural' in the Tok Pisin language.

About Thirukkural:

  • Tirukkural (Tamil: “Sacred Couplets”) also called Kural, is a classic Tamil text written by Thiruvalluvar, believed to have lived sometime between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE.
  • It has had an immense influence on Tamil culture and life.
  • It is a collection of 1,330 couplets (kurals) that offer timeless wisdom on various aspects of life, including ethics, governance, love, and spirituality.
  • Structure and Themes:
    • Thirukkural is divided into three main sections or books: Aram (Virtue), Porul (Wealth), and Inbam (Love).
    • Each section covers a wide range of topics and imparts moral, ethical, and practical guidance to the readers.
    • The couplets are composed in a concise and poetic form, making them easily memorable and quotable.
    • Aram:
      • It discusses virtues such as righteousness, truth, gratitude, and compassion.
      • It emphasizes the importance of leading a righteous life and upholding moral values in all circumstances.
    • Porul:
      • It provides insights into worldly affairs, including governance, economy, and friendship.
      • It offers wisdom on topics like wealth management, administration, and the value of good company.
    • Inbam:
      • It delves into the complexities of human emotions, love, and family life.