Eschewing of Faults by Thiruvalluvar

Name: Eschewing of Faults
Author: Thiruvalluvar

The work emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the avoidance of personal faults, particularly in leadership. It highlights the virtues of humility, emotional control, and prudence. A leader should be free from arrogance, anger, and excessive pride, as these traits undermine dignity and prosperity. It warns against the dangers of jealousy and the tendency to magnify minor faults, suggesting that such attitudes can lead to a distorted perception of oneself and others. The text advocates for vigilance against personal weaknesses, which are portrayed as internal enemies that can lead to downfall. Preparation and foresight are crucial; failure to anticipate challenges can result in catastrophic consequences. The narrative suggests that a leader who addresses their own shortcomings before scrutinizing others will be fortified against adversity. The work critiques miserliness, indicating that failure to allocate resources wisely can lead to ruin. It distinguishes parsimony as a unique vice, separate from other moral failings, emphasizing its destructive potential. Additionally, it advises against prideful exultation and engaging in ventures that lack merit. The text concludes with a strategic perspective on personal joys, suggesting that keeping them private can thwart adversarial schemes. Overall, the work serves as a guide for personal integrity and effective leadership, advocating for self-correction and prudent management of one's character and resources.

By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophy, Self-help, Political literature · 230 words

First lines

Behold the man who is free from haughtiness and anger and the vulgar passion: 21 there is a dignity about him that adorneth his prosperity.

Parsimony, overconfidence, and excessive amour propre are faults in the prince.

Behold the men who are jealous of their reputation: though their fault be small even like a millet seed, they look upon it as of the measure of a palmyra tree.

Guard thyself jealously against weaknesses: for they are the foes that will lead thee to ruin.

What this Textopian page supports

Eschewing of Faults is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2000 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Thiruvalluvar
Date: 2000 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophy, Self-help, Political literature, Didactic literature, Ethics
Length: 230 words
Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophy — The text explores moral and ethical principles, focusing on self-improvement and the avoidance of personal faults.
Self-help — The work provides guidance on personal conduct and the importance of self-awareness in achieving success.
Political literature — It addresses the qualities and faults of leadership, particularly in the context of a prince or ruler.
Didactic literature — The text aims to instruct readers on the importance of virtue and the consequences of vice.