Forgiveness by Thiruvalluvar (2000)
The work emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness as a fundamental aspect of moral strength and greatness. It begins by illustrating the idea that just as the earth supports those who exploit it, individuals should also bear with those who wrong them. The text advocates for a mindset of continual forgiveness, suggesting that forgetting the wrongs done is even more virtuous. It highlights the shame associated with refusing hospitality and contrasts it with the strength found in tolerating ignorance and foolishness. The narrative posits that true greatness lies in the ability to forgive, positioning those who retaliate as lesser in wisdom compared to those who choose to forgive. The fleeting nature of revenge is contrasted with the enduring glory of forgiveness, suggesting that the satisfaction derived from revenge is temporary, while the honor of forgiving lasts indefinitely. The work encourages individuals to rise above personal grievances, advocating for a noble response to prideful injuries. It further asserts that those who endure slander and criticism are more virtuous than those who engage in ascetic practices, placing forgiveness above mere acts of penance. The overarching message is that forgiveness is a hallmark of true nobility and strength, elevating the individual above their detractors and fostering a more harmonious existence.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophical, Self-help, Spiritual · 201 words
First lines
The earth supporteth even those that dig into her: even so bear thou with those that traduce thee; for that is greatness.
Forgive thou always the injuries that others may do thee: but if thou forget them, it were even better.
The most shameful poverty is the refusal of hospitality: and the greatest strength is to bear with the dullness of fools.
If thou want to be grand always, be forgiving unto all.
What this Textopian page supports
Forgiveness 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: Philosophical, Self-help, Spiritual, Poetry, Ethical literature
- Length: 201 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Forgiveness by Thiruvalluvar
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Forgiveness?
- How does this essay by Thiruvalluvar fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Addressing Ones Own Heart by Thiruvalluvar
- Considerateness by Thiruvalluvar
- Renunciation by Thiruvalluvar
- Non Injuring by Thiruvalluvar
- The Rule Of Life by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- The Greatness Of Those Who Have Renounced The World by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep moral and ethical themes surrounding forgiveness and the nature of human relationships.
- Self-help — The work provides guidance on personal growth and emotional resilience through the practice of forgiveness.
- Spiritual — The themes reflect spiritual teachings on compassion, humility, and the importance of forgiveness in a moral life.
- Poetry — The writing style employs poetic language and structure, typical of Thiruvalluvar's work.
Tags
Philosophy · Ethics · Morality · Spirituality · Self-Discovery · Personal Growth · Forgiveness · Compassion · Empathy · Understanding · Tolerance · Perseverance