Kural 129 | The Power of Restraint

 



**தீயினாற் சுட்டபுண் ணுள்ளாறு மாறாதே  

நாவினாற் சுட்ட வடு**


**Transliteration:**

**Theeyinaar Suttap Punn Ullaaru Maaraadhe  

Naavinaar Sutta Vadu**


#### Word by Word Meaning:


- **தீயினால்** (Theeyinaal) - By fire

- **சுட்ட** (Sutta) - Burnt

- **புண்** (Punn) - Wound

- **உள்** (Ull) - Inside

- **ஆறும்** (Aarum) - Heals

- **மாறாதே** (Maraadhe) - Does not change

- **நாவினால்** (Naavinaal) - By tongue

- **சுட்ட** (Sutta) - Burnt

- **வடு** (Vadu) - Scar


#### Translation and Detailed Explanation:


**Translation:**

The wound caused by fire heals in its time; the burn inflicted by an inflamed tongue never heals.


**Detailed Explanation:**

In this kural, Thiruvalluvar highlights the enduring impact of harsh words. While physical wounds caused by fire may eventually heal, the emotional and psychological scars left by cruel or harsh words can persist indefinitely. The kural emphasizes the importance of restraint and mindfulness in speech, as words can cause lasting damage to a person's heart and mind. This wisdom underscores the value of speaking with kindness and consideration, reflecting the profound impact our words can have on others.


#### Example/Analogy:


Consider a piece of paper. When it is burnt, the paper is damaged but can be discarded and replaced. However, if you crumple the paper with harsh words and then try to smooth it out, the creases and marks remain, symbolizing the lasting impact of verbal wounds.


#### Highlights:


- 🗣️ Words have enduring power.

- 🔥 Physical wounds heal over time.

- 🩹 Emotional scars from words can last a lifetime.

- 💭 Mindfulness in speech is crucial.

- 🌟 Emphasizes the value of restraint and kindness.


#### Inference for Modern Times:


In today's fast-paced and digitally connected world, where words can be exchanged instantaneously through social media and other platforms, the importance of mindful communication is more relevant than ever. Harsh comments, negative feedback, or cyberbullying can leave deep, long-lasting emotional scars. Practicing restraint and compassion in our interactions, both online and offline, helps foster a more supportive and understanding community. By choosing our words wisely, we contribute to a more harmonious and positive environment, reflecting the timeless wisdom of Thiruvalluvar.

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