Listening to the Instruction of the Wise

Name: Listening to the Instruction of the Wise
Author: Thiruvalluvar

The work emphasizes the paramount importance of listening to wise counsel as a fundamental source of knowledge and guidance. It asserts that the ability to hear and absorb instruction is the greatest treasure one can possess, surpassing even material wealth. The text highlights that those who actively seek and heed wise words are elevated in stature, akin to divine beings on earth. Listening is portrayed as a vital skill, essential for personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges. The counsel of the righteous is likened to a sturdy support that prevents individuals from faltering. Even minimal instruction can significantly enhance one's dignity and understanding, reinforcing the idea that quality matters more than quantity in learning. The narrative underscores the value of introspection and the accumulation of wisdom through attentive listening. It suggests that individuals who have engaged deeply with wise teachings are less likely to speak foolishly, even when they make mistakes. Conversely, those who neglect to listen are depicted as lacking depth and insight, rendering their existence inconsequential. The work advocates for humility in speech, which is often unattainable for those who have not been exposed to the nuanced expressions of the wise. It critiques those who focus solely on sensory experiences, such as taste, while ignoring the profound insights that come from attentive listening. Ultimately, the text serves as a call to prioritize the cultivation of listening skills and the pursuit of wisdom, positioning these as essential components of a meaningful and impactful life.

By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2009 · Genre: Philosophy, Self-help, Spirituality · 234 words

First lines

The most precious of treasures is the treasure of the ear: verily it is the crown of all kinds of wealth.

Even unto the stomach some food will be offered when there is no more food to be offered to the ear.20

Behold the men who have listened to much instruction: they are very Gods on earth.

Let a man hear instruction even though he hath no learning: for it will be a stay unto him when he is encompassed by difficulty.

What this Textopian page supports

Listening to the Instruction of the Wise is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2009 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: 2009 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophy, Self-help, Spirituality, Poetry, Ethics
Length: 234 words
Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophy — The book emphasizes wisdom, instruction, and the importance of listening, which are central themes in philosophical discourse.
Self-help — The text provides guidance on personal development and the value of learning from wise counsel.
Spirituality — The work reflects on the spiritual significance of wisdom and the moral implications of listening to the wise.
Poetry — The writing style employs poetic elements, making it a work of literary art.