Thirukkural 373 in English

Tamil original, transliteration, English translation, meaning, commentary, pronunciation, and chapter context.

Tamil original

நுண்ணிய நூல்பல கற்பினும் மற்றுந்தன்
உண்மை யறிவே மிகும்.

Transliteration

Nunniya Noolpala Karpinum Matrundhan
Unmai Yarive Mikum

English Translation

“What matters subtle study deep? Levels of innate wisdom-keep”

Plain-English meaning

Although (a man) may study the most polished treatises, the knowledge which fate has decreed to him will still prevail

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Tamil pronunciation

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English Translation

What matters subtle study deep? Levels of innate wisdom-keep

G.U. Pope Translation

In subtle learning manifold though versed man be,'The wisdom, truly his, will gain supremacy

Plain-English Meaning

Although (a man) may study the most polished treatises, the knowledge which fate has decreed to him will still prevail

பேதை ஆக்குவதற்கு உரிய விதி நமக்கு இருந்தால், நுட்பமான கருத்துக்களை உடைய பல நூல்களைக் கற்றாலும் இயல்பான அறிவே இருக்கும். ( அறிவு விரிவ பெறாது)

Chapter 38

ஊழ்

Efforts succeed by waxing star Wealth-losing brings waning star

Loss-fate makes a dull fool of us Gain-fate makes us prosperous, wise!

What matters subtle study deep? Levels of innate wisdom-keep

Two natures in the world obtain Some wealth and others wisdom gain

In making wealth fate changes mood; The good as bad and bad as good

Things not thine never remain Things destined are surely thine

Who crores amass enjoy but what The Dispenser's decrees allot

The destitute desire will quit If fate with ills visit them not

Who good in time of good perceive In evil time why should they grieve?

What power surpasses fate? Its will Persists against the human skill