Learning by Thiruvalluvar (2000)

Name: Learning
Author: Thiruvalluvar

The work emphasizes the paramount importance of acquiring knowledge and the transformative power it holds. It begins by asserting that true knowledge is essential for a fulfilling life, urging individuals to seek out valuable learning and to live in accordance with it. The text contrasts the learned with the unlettered, suggesting that only those who possess knowledge truly see and understand the world, while the uneducated are likened to having afflictions. The joy and value brought by scholars are highlighted, as their presence enriches the lives of others, leaving a lasting impact. Humility in seeking knowledge is encouraged, equating the act of learning to a noble pursuit, while those who refuse to learn are deemed inferior. The metaphor of knowledge as a sand-spring illustrates that the more one seeks to learn, the more abundant and rewarding the knowledge becomes. The work posits that a learned individual feels at home anywhere, as their knowledge transcends geographical boundaries. It questions the neglect of education, urging individuals to recognize the lifelong benefits of learning, which can elevate one's status even across different lifetimes. The delight of sharing knowledge is emphasized, as the learned find joy in teaching others, creating a cycle of enlightenment. Ultimately, the text presents learning as an invaluable, eternal treasure, far surpassing material wealth. It advocates for a lifelong commitment to education, underscoring that true fulfillment and respect come from the pursuit of knowledge. The work serves as a profound reminder of the significance of learning in shaping character, enhancing life experiences, and fostering connections among individuals.

By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophy, Education, Self-help · 234 words

First lines

Acquire thoroughly the knowledge that is worth acquiring and after acquiring it walk thou in accordance therewith.

Two are the eyes of living kind: the one is called Numbers, and the other, Letters.

The learned alone can be said to possess eyes: the unlettered have but two sores in their head.

The scholar bringeth joy with him wherever he cometh: but when he departeth he leaveth regrets behind.

What this Textopian page supports

Learning 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, Education, Self-help, Spirituality, Literary
Length: 234 words
Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Learning 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 Learning?
How does this essay by Thiruvalluvar fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Philosophy first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Philosophy — The text explores the nature and value of knowledge and learning, emphasizing its importance in life.
Education — The work focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and the role of teachers and scholars in the learning process.
Self-help — It provides guidance on personal development through learning and the pursuit of knowledge.
Spirituality — The text touches on the idea of learning as a means to elevate one's existence across lifetimes.