Indulgence in frivolous speech not only reveals one's lack of moral character, but it deprives him of good qualities also.
ThiruvalluvarRead
A man who always speaks the truth wholeheartedly is greater than those who do penance and deeds of charity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truthfulness is a more admirable quality than merely performing good deeds.
This quote emphasizes the value of honesty over external acts of virtue such as charity or penance. It suggests that the integrity and authenticity of a person's character, demonstrated by their commitment to truth, surpass the significance of their actions if those actions are not grounded in genuine truthfulness.
Themes
TruthHonestyIntegrityWisdomCharity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about the importance of being true to oneself.
More from Thiruvalluvar
All quotes βThe first and most important thing a man should keep away from is not doing harm of any kind knowingly to anyone, at any time.
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Among a man's many good possessions, A good command of speech has no equal. Prosperity and ruin issue from the power of the tongue. Therefore, guard yourself against thoughtless speech.
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To embrace the whole world in friendship is wisdom. This wisdom is not changeable like the flowers that bloom and fade.
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How can one, who eats the flesh of others to swell his flesh, show compassion?
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Those who worship God only, can get rid of anxiety of mind; others cannot.
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