Keeping Aloof from Vulgar Company
The work emphasizes the importance of associating with virtuous individuals while avoiding those of low character. It asserts that a person's worth is influenced by their company, as mingling with the vulgar can corrupt one's mind and reputation. The text draws parallels between water and the mind, illustrating how external influences can alter one's nature. It posits that true understanding and character are shaped by the company one keeps, suggesting that purity of heart and action are contingent upon surrounding oneself with good people. The narrative highlights that those who maintain virtuous associations will not only prosper but also ensure the righteousness of their descendants. The wise recognize the strength derived from pure company, which serves as a foundation for virtuous living and spiritual elevation. The work concludes that good company is an invaluable ally, while evil company poses significant harm, reinforcing the idea that one's social circle plays a crucial role in shaping their destiny and moral standing.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2004 · Genre: Philosophy, Self-help, Poetry · 214 words
First lines
Men of worth fear vulgar company: but little-minded men mix with it as if they made one family with it.
Water altereth and taketh the character of the soil through which it floweth: even so the mind taketh the colour of the company with which it consorteth.
The understanding of a man belongeth unto his mind: but his reputation dependeth on the company he keepeth.
The disposition of a man seemeth to reside in his mind: but its veritable abode is the company in which he moveth.
What this Textopian page supports
Keeping Aloof from Vulgar Company 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: Philosophy, Self-help, Poetry, Ethics, Sociology
- Length: 214 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Keeping Aloof from Vulgar Company by Thiruvalluvar
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
- Tapas by Thiruvalluvar
- The Losing Of The Sense Of A Dignified Reserve by Thiruvalluvar
- Refraining From Vain Speaking by Thiruvalluvar
- Kindness Of Speech by Thiruvalluvar
- Refraining From Offending The Great Ones by Thiruvalluvar
- The Conduct Of Affairs by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophy — The text explores moral and ethical themes regarding the influence of company on character and virtue.
- Self-help — It provides guidance on the importance of surrounding oneself with virtuous individuals for personal growth.
- Poetry — The work is written in a poetic style, utilizing metaphor and concise language to convey its messages.
- Ethics — It discusses the ethical implications of one's associations and the impact on reputation and morality.
Tags
Philosophical · Poetic · Tamil Literature · Ancient Indian Texts · Ethics · Morality · Social Commentary · Cultural Critique · Spiritual Guidance · Self-Improvement · Wisdom Literature · Classical Tamil