Kural Chronicles

KURAL 247

ARUTPAAL

THURAVARAVIYAL

ADHIKAARAM 25 : ARUL UDAIMAI – HAVING GRACE AND COMPASSION

அருளில்லார்க்கு அவ்வுலகம் இல்லை பொருளில்லார்க்கு
இவ்வுலகம் இல்லாகி யாங்கு.

Arulillaarku avvulagam illai porulillaarku

Ivvulagam illaagi yaangu

This world is not for those with no material wealth. The other higher world is not for those who have no compassion.

Arul: grace or compassion; Illaarku: those who do not have;  Avvulagam: that world;  Illai: no or not;  Porul: material wealth or objects; Ivvulagam: this world

Valluvar accepts reality when he says this world is not for the poor. Without money, even the basic necessities of food, clothing and shelter become an everyday struggle for the family man. Compare it with the luxurious lifestyles of the ultra-rich and you will acknowledge that it’s an unfair world.

When he says ‘the other world’, Valluvar could mean the state of penance or he could mean the other higher world or heaven – where you are presumed to be one with God. This higher world is not an unfair world. It is not pre ordained or destined for the rich and influential; Rich or poor, it is in your hands and mind to gain a place there. Open your heart to the needy, feel for their plight and do what you can to help. Reserve your place in heaven and in the process, make this world a better place too.