Hearing
Nunangiya Kelviya Rallaar Vanangiya / Vaayina Raadhal Aridhu
Classical English couplet — “'Tis hard for mouth to utter gentle, modest word,When ears discourse of lore refined have never heard”
What it says in plain words
“Without listening carefully and learning, it is hard to speak humbly and respectfully.”
The classical Tamil reading
நுட்பமான பொருள்களைக் கேட்டறிந்தவர் அல்லாத மற்றவர், வணக்கமானச் சொற்களைப் பேசும் வாயினை உடையவராக முடியாது.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
தெளிவான கேள்வியறிவு இல்லாதவர்கள், அடக்கமாகப் பேசும் அமைதியான பண்புடையவர்களாக இருக்க இயலாது
The ethical and philosophical heart
Listening helps us understand more than our own view. It also shows us how much we still have to learn. This makes it easier to speak without acting superior. At home or work, learning through careful listening can shape how we speak.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You listen to a friend's explanation before gently sharing a different view.
- Workplace
- You learn from an experienced coworker instead of claiming you know everything.
- Family
- You hear your child's reasons before giving a calm reply.
- Society
- You listen to neighbors' experiences before speaking respectfully at a community meeting.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Listen to people who understand the issue before stating your choice.
- Integrity
- Admit what you do not know, and listen to learn.
- Communication
- Learn from what others say before offering your own view.
- Leadership
- Listen carefully to your team, then respond without talking down to anyone.
- Governance
- Public officials should learn from people's concerns and answer them respectfully.
For leaders and teams
Make time to learn from the people you guide. Let careful listening shape respectful speech, rather than using your position to sound superior.
Something to sit with
“Who could you listen to today to help you speak with more understanding and respect?”