Reflections on Thirukkural 431: Master pride, anger, and meanness tendencies

“Great indeed is the wealth of those men

Who aren’t proud, angry and mean.” (Thiruvalluvar)

Pride or Arrogance is an inflated sense of self-importance and superiority. Arrogant individuals often feel entitled and look down on others. Freedom from pride manifests as equanimity, a balanced self-view where one's self-worth isn’t inflated or diminished. This fosters a grounded, respectful presence and allows for genuine relationships.

Anger, in its subtle forms (like passive-aggression) or intense forms (like fury, rage, wrath, and hostility), clouds judgment and damages relationships. Those free from anger maintain composure, approaching life with patience and wisdom, avoiding unnecessary pain and conflict.

Meanness involves treating others harshly, unkindly, and unpleasantly. Such behavior damages relationships and creates a toxic environment. Addressing meanness involves fostering kindness, empathy, and understanding.

Pettiness refers to obsessing over trivial matters, nitpicking, and overreacting. It undermines relationships and hinders personal growth by focusing excessively on minor issues. Overcoming pettiness involves cultivating a broader perspective and focusing on more significant matters.

Lust means uncontrolled desires, including physical cravings and greed for power, wealth, or pleasure. Those free from lust act with clarity and self-discipline, focusing on higher, meaningful pursuits rather than temporary pleasures.

Individuals who master these tendencies possess an inner richness that surpasses external wealth. They embody equanimity, peacefulness, self-control, kindness, wisdom, discernment, and integrity. They live with dignity, earn respect, and lead a more prosperous and fulfilling life.

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📚✍️ Written over 2000 years ago in Tamil Nadu, the Thirukkural offers timeless wisdom on the art of living through its 133 chapters, each containing profound insights on life. For English translations, I use both Dr. M. Rajaram's 'Thirukkural – Pearls of Inspiration' (Rupa Publications) and Kannan’s translation available at thirukkural133.wordpress.com.

This translation of Thirukkural 431 comes from Dr. M. Rajaram's translation. Kannan’s translation of the same verse is as follows: "Those who lack arrogance, wrath and pettiness: wealth, in their hands, assumes dignity."