Thirukkural 677 in English

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

Tamil original

செய்வினை செய்வான் செயன்முறை அவ்வினை
உள்ளறிவான் உள்ளம் கொளல்.

Transliteration

Seyvinai Seyvaan Seyanmurai Avvinai
Ullarivaan Ullam Kolal

English Translation

“Know first the secret from experts That is the way of fruitful acts”

Plain-English meaning

The method of performance for one who has begun an act is to ascertain the mind of him who knows the secret thereof

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Tamil pronunciation

Speed

English Translation

Know first the secret from experts That is the way of fruitful acts

G.U. Pope Translation

Who would succeed must thus begin first let him ask The thoughts of them who thoroughly know the task

Plain-English Meaning

The method of performance for one who has begun an act is to ascertain the mind of him who knows the secret thereof

ஒரு செயலைச் செய்யத் தொடங்குபவன் அதைச் செய்யும் முறையாவது, அச்செயலை இதற்கு முன்பு செய்திருப்பவனின் கருத்தை அறிந்து கொள்வதேயாகும்.

Chapter 68

வினை செயல்வகை

When counsel takes a resolve strong Weak delay of action is wrong

Delay such acts as need delay Delay not acts that need display

It's best to act when feasible If not see what is possible

Work or foe left unfinished Flare up like fire unextinguished

Money and means, time, place and deed Decide these five and then proceed

Weigh well the end, hindrance, profit And then pursue a fitting act

Know first the secret from experts That is the way of fruitful acts

Lure a tusker by a tusker Achieve a deed by deed better

Than doing good to friends it is More urgent to befriend the foes

Small statesmen fearing people's fear Submit to foes superior