Not Envying
Azhukkaatrin Allavai Seyyaar Izhukkaatrin / Edham Patupaakku Arindhu
Classical English couplet — “The wise through envy break not virtue's laws,Knowing ill-deeds of foul disgrace the cause”
What it says in plain words
“People who understand the harm of wrongdoing do not let jealousy lead them to hurt others.”
The classical Tamil reading
பொறாமைப்படுதலாகிய தவறான நெறியில் துன்பம் ஏற்படுதை அறிந்து, பொறாமை காரணமாக அறமல்லாதவைகளைச் செய்யார் அறிவுடையோர்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
தீய வழியில் சென்றால் துன்பம் ஏற்படுமென்பதை அறிந்தவர்கள் பொறாமையினால் தீச்செயல்களில் ஈடுபடமாட்டார்கள்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Someone else's success can make us feel left behind. But lying about them or damaging their work causes harm. Understanding this helps us stop jealousy from guiding our actions. We can feel jealous without choosing to do something wrong.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You feel jealous of a friend's new car but avoid making hurtful comments.
- Workplace
- A coworker gets promoted, and you refuse to spread rumors about them.
- Family
- Your sister receives more praise, but you do not hide something she needs.
- Society
- A neighbor's business grows, and you refuse to post a false complaint.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Before acting on jealousy, think about whom your action could hurt.
- Integrity
- Do not lie about someone just because they have something you want.
- Communication
- Speak truthfully about others, even when their success makes you jealous.
- Leadership
- Give others fair credit, even when their work receives more praise than yours.
- Governance
- Do not block useful public work because another group will receive the credit.
For leaders and teams
When someone else shines, choose fairness over jealousy. Do not let jealousy lead you to treat them badly.
Something to sit with
“Where might jealousy be shaping your choices today, and what could you do without hurting anyone?”