Thirukkural 652 in English
Tamil original, transliteration, English translation, meaning, commentary, pronunciation, and chapter context.
Tamil original
என்றும் ஒருவுதல் வேண்டும் புகழொடு
நன்றி பயவா வினை.
Transliteration
Endrum Oruvudhal Ventum Pukazhotu
Nandri Payavaa Vinai
Modern English
“Avoid actions that bring neither a good reputation nor lasting benefit.”
Modern Interpretation
Avoid actions that bring neither a good reputation nor lasting benefit. Before joining a scheme, ask whether it helps anyone or leaves you ashamed later.
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Tamil pronunciation
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Modern Plain English
Avoid actions that bring neither a good reputation nor lasting benefit.
Poetic Couplet (Bharati)
Eschew always acts that do not Bring good nor glory on their part
G.U. Pope Translation
From action evermore thyself restrainOf glory and of good that yields no gain
Classical Meaning (Drew & Lazarus)
Ministers should at all times avoid acts which, in addition to fame, yield no benefit (for the future)
Tamil commentary
இம்மைக்குப் புகழையும் மறுமைக்கு நன்மையையும் தராத செயல்களை எந்தக் காலத்திலும் விட்டுவிட வேண்டும்.
Chapter 66
More from Purity in Action
வினைத் தூய்மை
Friendship brings gain; but action pure Does every good thing we desire
Kural 652Eschew always acts that do not Bring good nor glory on their part
Kural 653Those in the world desire for fame Should shun the deed that dims their name
Kural 654Though perils press the faultless wise Shun deeds of mean, shameful device
Kural 655Do not wrong act and grieve, \"Alas\" If done, do not repeat it twice
Kural 656Though she who begot thee hungers Shun acts denounced by ancient seers
Kural 657Pinching poverty of the wise Is more than wealth hoarded by Vice
Kural 658Those who dare a forbidden deed Suffer troubles though they succeed
Kural 659Gains from weeping, weeping go Though lost, from good deeds blessings flow
Kural 660The wealth gathered in guilty ways Is water poured in wet clay vase