Honour by Thiruvalluvar (2000)
The work emphasizes the paramount importance of honour and integrity in human life. It asserts that one should refrain from actions that compromise personal dignity, even in dire circumstances. The pursuit of a respected legacy is highlighted, illustrating that true honour cannot be sacrificed for fleeting glory. Modesty is encouraged during prosperous times, while maintaining dignity is crucial during adversity. The text draws a stark comparison between those who tarnish their reputation and discarded hair, suggesting that once honour is lost, it cannot be reclaimed. Even individuals of great stature diminish in worth through ignoble actions, regardless of their previous achievements. The narrative critiques the tendency to seek validation from those who hold disdain, arguing that it is preferable to face demise than to cling to scornful relationships. The text questions the value placed on physical existence when it comes at the expense of honour, likening it to the kavarima, which sacrifices its life for the loss of its wool. Ultimately, the work celebrates individuals who prioritize their good name over life itself, asserting that such people earn the reverence of society. The overarching message is a call to uphold honour as the highest virtue, transcending all other considerations.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophical, Didactic, Poetry · 274 words
First lines
Forbear from those things that would lower thee, even though they should be indispensable for the very preservation of thy life.
Behold the men that desire to leave an honoured name behind them: they will not do that which is not right even for the sake of glory.
Cultivate modesty in the day of prosperity: but in the day of thy decline hold fast to thy dignity.
Behold the men that have soiled a name that was honourable: they are even as the locks of hair that have been shaven off the head and thrown away.
What this Textopian page supports
Honour 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, Didactic, Poetry, Moral Literature, Cultural
- Length: 274 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Honour 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 Honour?
- 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 Traitor In The Camp by Thiruvalluvar
- The Losing Of The Sense Of A Dignified Reserve by Thiruvalluvar
- The Councillor Of State by Thiruvalluvar
- In Praise Of The Lord by Thiruvalluvar
- Refraining From Offending The Great Ones by Thiruvalluvar
- Refraining From Vain Speaking by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep moral and ethical questions regarding honour, dignity, and the human condition.
- Didactic — The work serves to instruct readers on the importance of maintaining honour and integrity in life.
- Poetry — The writing style employs poetic devices and structure, reflecting the lyrical nature of the content.
- Moral Literature — The themes focus on moral values and the consequences of actions related to honour.
Tags
Epic Poetry · Tamil Literature · Ancient Indian Texts · Moral Code · Ethics · Philosophy · Social Hierarchy · Caste System · Dharma · Artha · Kama · Moksha