Tirukural

CHAPTER 42

Learning by Listening

411

The most precious wealth is the wealth acquired by the ear. Indeed, of all wealth, that wealth is paramount.§

412

Only when no fare can be found for the ear is it time to offer the stomach a morsel.§

413

In Heaven, Deities feed from sacrificial fires. On Earth, men who feast on listening are their equal.§

414

Though he has no learning, if a man listens to the learned, that will serve as his staff of strength in adversity.§

415

Words from the lips of upright men are like a steadying staff in a slippery place.§

416

Let a man listen to good things, however little. Even that little will enlarge his greatness.§

417

Those who have studied deeply and listened diligently never speak foolish words, even when they have misunderstood a matter.§

418

If not pierced by acute listening, ears may hear and yet remain deaf.§

419

Unless he has listened to learning’s subtlety, it is rare indeed for a man to speak with humility.§

420

There are those whose tongues taste but whose ears savor nothing. What does it matter whether they live or die?§