Further Relevant Observations On Kingship From the Thiruk-Kural
Further relevant observations on Kingship* picked at random from the THIRUK-KURAL
[* generic term for heads of state, dictators and the like]
K738: piniyinmai chelvam vilaivuinbam eemam
anienba naadditkuiv ainthum
A country's jewels are these five: unfailing health,
Fertility, and joy, a sure defence, and wealth. (Transl. G.U. Pope)
Freedom from epidemics, wealth, produce, happiness and protection (to subjects); these five, the learned, say, are the ornaments of a kingdom. (Transl. Drew& Lazarus)
Free of pandemics, (reserves of ) wealth (ensured), crops (galore), (the populace) enjoying life and (the topographical layout of the land conducive to) defence of the territory - these constitute the five ornaments of the land. (Transl. T. Wignesan)
K740: aangguamaivu eithiyak kannum payaminree
veenthuamai villaatha naadu
Though blest with all these varied gifts' increase,
A land gains nought that is not with its king at peace. (Transl. G.U. Pope)
Although in possession of all the above mentioned excellences, these are indeed of no use to a country, in the absence of harmony between the sovereign and the subjects. (Transl. Drew & Lazarus)
All the above endowments [and much more in eight other couplets in the chapter] are of scant advantage if the king enjoys not the trust and loyalty of his subjects.* (Transl. T. Wignesan)
*Despite what fluctuating polls may say.
© T.Wignesan - Paris, 2017
Copyright © T Wignesan | Year Posted 2017
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