Absence of Terrorism
Katunjollan Kannilan Aayin Netunjelvam / Neetindri Aange Ketum
Classical English couplet — “The tyrant, harsh in speach and hard of eye,His ample joy, swift fading, soon shall die”
What it says in plain words
“Even great wealth will quickly disappear when its owner speaks harshly and shows no kindness.”
The classical Tamil reading
கடுஞ்சொல் உடையவனாய்க் கண்ணோட்டம் இல்லாதவனாய் உள்ளவனுடைய பெரிய செல்வம் நீடித்தல் இல்லாமல் அப்பொழுதே கெடும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
கடுஞ்சொல்லும், கருணையற்ற உள்ளமும் கொண்டவர்களின் பெருஞ்செல்வம் நிலைக்காமல் அழிந்துவிடும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
The couplet warns that wealth cannot protect a cruel person. Its central lesson is that wealth needs kindness to last. Harsh words can push away people whose help matters. At home or work, unkind treatment can weaken support and damage relationships.
In personal life, work and society
Personal: You thank a friend who helps you instead of finding fault.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider how your choice will affect people who depend on you.
- Integrity
- Treat people kindly even when your money gives you power.
- Communication
- Explain a mistake without insulting the person who made it.
- Leadership
- Listen to people's difficulties before speaking sharply about their work.
- Governance
- Treat people seeking public help with care, not harsh words.
For leaders and teams
To lead well, pair clear words with kindness. Wealth and power are no excuse for treating people cruelly.
Something to sit with
“Where could you replace harsh words with a kinder response today?”