Glory by Thiruvalluvar (2004)
The work emphasizes the paramount importance of generosity and the lasting impact of giving to the less fortunate. It asserts that true profit lies in the act of charity, which elevates one's name and reputation. The text highlights that while material possessions and earthly achievements fade, the glory gained from selfless acts endures eternally. It presents a dichotomy between those who achieve lasting fame through noble deeds and those who live ingloriously. The narrative suggests that the divine favors those who contribute positively to society, placing them above even the most revered saints. The text argues that greatness is defined by the ability to earn glory, and those who fail to do so are better off never having existed. The work critiques individuals who harbor resentment towards their critics, pointing out that self-reflection and acknowledgment of one's flaws are essential for personal growth. It posits that a lack of pursuit for fame is a collective disgrace, leading to societal decline. The imagery of a land burdened by an inglorious populace serves as a warning against complacency and moral decay. Ultimately, the text champions the idea that a life lived with integrity and purpose, marked by acts of kindness, is the only true measure of existence. It concludes that those who achieve glory through virtuous actions are the ones who truly live, while those who do not are destined to be forgotten.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2004 · Genre: Philosophical, Didactic, Poetry · 216 words
First lines
Give to the poor and add glory unto thy name: there is no greater profit for man than this.
The one theme in the mouth of all that praise is the glory of those that give unto the poor.
Everything else dieth on earth: but the fame that hath no rival endureth forever.
Behold the man that hath won a lasting, worldwide fame: the Gods on high prefer him even before saints.
What this Textopian page supports
Glory is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2004 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: 2004 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Didactic, Poetry, Religious, Social Commentary
- Length: 216 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Glory 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 Glory?
- How does this essay by Thiruvalluvar fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Neglecting Of Instruction by Thiruvalluvar
- Realisation Of The Truth by Thiruvalluvar
- The Glorification Of Righteousness by Thiruvalluvar
- Fortresses by Thiruvalluvar
- Listening To The Instruction Of The Wise by Thiruvalluvar
- Indigence by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep themes of glory, fame, and moral virtue, characteristic of philosophical literature.
- Didactic — The work imparts moral lessons about the importance of giving and earning glory, typical of didactic literature.
- Poetry — The style and structure suggest a poetic form, emphasizing rhythm and metaphor.
- Religious — The text references divine approval and moral righteousness, aligning it with religious themes.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Tamil Literature · Ethics · Morality · Spirituality · Self-Discovery · Human Nature · Existentialism · Hinduism · Buddhism · Ancient Indian Wisdom