Thirukkural
Holy Kural or Kural was a composition by Sant Valluvar in ancient Tamil Nadu.
The scriptures is meant to be a non-sectarian or 'generic' bible of ethics for humanity in general [to understand the right worldview and put it into practice. It does, however, state some concepts specific to Arya Dharmas (i.e., karma, reincarnation, moksha.)
Usage of Sanskrit[edit]
In the realm of dharm, Sanskrit has always been unavoidable to use in Tamil texts, whether Sanatan, Jain, or Bauddh, especially as the dharmas spread from north to south.
Familiar Concepts[edit]
The scripture treats the four-fold societal division as classes (varnas), not jatis (castes), meaning that the classes have mobility to move into other classes.
| Class | Occupations | Sanskrit-Derived? | Occurrence(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asaran | Monarchs, warriors, political administrators | Yes ('Raja') |
|
| Anthanar | Priests, monks, and teachers | Yes ('Antar' meaning within, describing the class to be Knowers of the Inner Being) |
|
| Vaisiyar | Merchants | Yes ('Vaishya') |
|
| Vellala | Agriculturalists, artisans, labourers | No |
The Four Pursuits are discussed in Arya dharmas, including the non-ancient Sikh Dharm. They are 1) Dharma, 2) Artha, 3) Kama, and 4) Moksha.
The 3 sections of the scripture are 1) Aram (Dharm), 2) Porul (Artha), 3) Inbam (Pleasure.) Moksha is implied (if one practices the 3 sections well, they will attain it.)
Symbolism and epithets of God[edit]
God is now visualized or depicted, except it stated to reside on the lotus ("Malar Misai Ekinan"), which is a description for Vishnu, Lakshmi, or Brahmā who are normally pictured being on a lotus.
| Name | Meaning | Sanskrit-Derived? | Occurrence(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adhi Bhagavan | Prime God | Yes ('Adi Bhagavan') |
|
| Bhagavan | God | Yes ('Bhagavan') |
|
| En Gunathaan | One With Eight Qualities | Yes ('Ek Gunatha') |
|
| Iraivan | Supreme Lord | No | |
| Kadavul | Supreme Being | No | |
| Malar Misai Ekinan | One Who Walks Upon The Lotus | No | |
| Vendan | King of the Universe | No |
Related articles[edit]
External sources[edit]
- "Krishna’s affirmation" (Published - November 25, 2025 06:43 pm IST)