Dread of Evil Deeds
Arungetan Enpadhu Arika Marungotith / Theevinai Seyyaan Enin
Classical English couplet — “The man, to devious way of sin that never turned aside,From ruin rests secure, whatever ills betide”
What it says in plain words
“A person who avoids wrongdoing and does not harm others stays safe from the ruin those actions bring.”
The classical Tamil reading
ஒருவன் தவறான நெறியில் சென்று தீயசெயல் செய்யாதிருப்பானானால் அவன் கேடு இல்லாதவன் என்று அறியலாம்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
வழிதவறிச் சென்று பிறர்க்குத் தீங்கு விளைவிக்காதவர்க்கு எந்தக் கேடும் ஏற்படாது என்பதை அறிந்து கொள்க
The ethical and philosophical heart
A harmful choice may seem like an easy way forward. But it can hurt others and bring trouble into your life. The couplet teaches that safety begins with avoiding harm. This matters when money, anger, or pressure makes wrongdoing tempting.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You leave someone's lost wallet untouched except to return it.
- Workplace
- You refuse to blame a coworker for your mistake.
- Family
- You avoid spreading a hurtful story about a relative.
- Society
- You dispose of waste safely instead of dumping it near homes.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Avoid choices that help you by hurting someone else.
- Integrity
- Refuse dishonest shortcuts, even when nobody is watching.
- Communication
- Do not spread lies to gain an advantage.
- Leadership
- Never ask your team to harm others for better results.
- Governance
- Reject plans that save money by putting people's safety at risk.
For leaders and teams
Help those you lead succeed without harming others. Refuse shortcuts that put other people at risk.
Something to sit with
“Where in your life today could you choose a less harmful way forward?”