Thirukkural 697 in English

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

Tamil original

வேட்பன சொல்லி வினையில எஞ்ஞான்றும்
கேட்பினும் சொல்லா விடல்.

Transliteration

Vetpana Solli Vinaiyila Egngnaandrum
Ketpinum Sollaa Vital

English Translation

“Tell pleasing things; and never tell Even if pressed what is futile”

Plain-English meaning

Ministers should (always) give agreeable advice but on no occasion recommend useless actions, though requested (to do so)

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Tamil pronunciation

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English Translation

Tell pleasing things; and never tell Even if pressed what is futile

G.U. Pope Translation

Speak pleasant things, but never utter idle word;Not though by monarch's ears with pleasure heard

Plain-English Meaning

Ministers should (always) give agreeable advice but on no occasion recommend useless actions, though requested (to do so)

ஆட்சியாளருக்குப் பயன்தரும் செய்திகளை அவர் கேட்காத போதும் சொல்லுக; பயன் தராத செய்திகளை எப்போதும் சொல்லாது விடுக.

Chapter 70

மன்னரைச் சேர்ந்து ஒழுகல்

Move with hostile kings as with fire Not coming close nor going far

Crave not for things which kings desire This brings thee their fruitful favour

Guard thyself from petty excess Suspected least, there's no redress

Whisper not; nor smile exchange Amidst august men's assemblage

Hear not, ask not the king's secret Hear only when he lets it out

Discern his mood and time and tell No dislikes but what king likes well

Tell pleasing things; and never tell Even if pressed what is futile

As young and kinsman do not slight; Look with awe king's light and might

The clear-visioned do nothing base Deeming they have the monarch's grace

Worthless acts based on friendship old Shall spell ruin and woe untold