Tirukural

CHAPTER 57

Avoidance of Tyranny

561

He is a true king who impartially investigates and then duly punishes so that the offense will not recur.§

562

He who wishes his prosperity to long remain will raise the rod severely, but let it fall softly.§

563

The tyrant who causes dread in his people will perish quickly and inevitably.§

564

“Our king is cruel.” When these bitter words are spoken, the monarch’s life is shortened, and he soon succumbs.§

565

If a man’s countenance is harsh and access to him is hard, his wealth, however vast, might as well belong to a demon.§

566

If a man is unkind and speaks cruelly, his vast wealth will not last long before perishing.§

567

Harsh language and overly severe punishment, like a keen file, grind down a king’s conquering powers.§

568

A king’s wealth wanes when, without thoughtful involvement, he lets ministers work, then furiously faults their efforts.§

569

The sovereign who does not secure defenses will be seized by fear when wartime comes and promptly perish.§

570

Earth bears no greater burden than crude counselors that a cruel-sceptered king binds to his court.§