Indulgence in frivolous speech not only reveals one's lack of moral character, but it deprives him of good qualities also.
ThiruvalluvarRead
People of noble character are afraid of keeping friendship with dishonorable people. But people of discreditable character consider friendship with the dishonorable as a blood relationship.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Noble individuals avoid associating with dishonorable people, while those of questionable character embrace such relationships.
This quote highlights the contrast between people of noble and discreditable character in their approach to friendship. It suggests that individuals with integrity and honor seek to distance themselves from those who lack moral principles, whereas those who do not uphold such values often form connections with similarly dishonorable individuals, viewing these relationships as closely knit or even familial.
Themes
NobilityFriendshipCharacterIntegrityDishonor
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of choosing friends wisely.
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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