Refraining from Vain Speaking
The work emphasizes the detrimental effects of speaking vainly and the importance of meaningful communication. It asserts that those who engage in idle talk are looked down upon by society and lose respect. The text highlights that speaking empty words is worse than harming friends, as it reflects a lack of worth and wisdom. It warns that even the honorable can lose their dignity if they indulge in such speech. The wise are encouraged to speak thoughtfully, prioritizing substance over superficiality. The text advocates for communication that yields benefits and discourages any form of profitless dialogue. It suggests that true wisdom lies in refraining from vain words, as they do not contribute to personal or communal growth. Ultimately, the work serves as a guide for individuals to cultivate meaningful discourse and avoid the pitfalls of empty rhetoric.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2004 · Genre: Philosophy, Self-help, Ethics · 188 words
First lines
Behold the man that angereth the public by the speaking of vain words: he will be despised of all men.
Worse even than injuring one's friends is the speaking of vain words before many.
He that multiplieth empty words declareth loud his want of worth.
Behold the man that speaketh vain words in an assembly: no profit will come unto him and all that is good will flee from his side.
What this Textopian page supports
Refraining from Vain Speaking 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, Ethics, Poetry, Sociology
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Refraining from Vain Speaking by Thiruvalluvar
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Kindness Of Speech by Thiruvalluvar
- Keeping Aloof From Vulgar Company by Thiruvalluvar
- Abstaining From Anger by Thiruvalluvar
- Abstention From Sloth by Thiruvalluvar
- Listening To The Instruction Of The Wise by Thiruvalluvar
- In Praise Of The Lord by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophy — The text explores themes of wisdom, speech, and the moral implications of communication, characteristic of philosophical discourse.
- Self-help — The work provides guidance on personal conduct and the importance of meaningful communication, aligning with self-improvement literature.
- Ethics — The focus on the consequences of vain speaking relates directly to ethical considerations in human behavior.
- Poetry — The writing style employs poetic elements, typical of Thiruvalluvar's works, enhancing its literary quality.
Tags
Tamil Literature · Ethics · Moral Philosophy · Ancient Indian Texts · Poetic Form · Couplets · Didactic Poetry · Spiritual Guidance · Self-Improvement · Virtue Ethics · Indian Philosophy · Hinduism