Thiruvalluvar said that ozhukkam (good conduct) is more precious than life itself. Tamil literature stresses the need for good conduct, said Malayaman in a discourse. Mudumozhikkanchi says that good conduct is more important than education. Naanmadikkadikai says that impeccable conduct is the best wealth one can possess. Pazhamozhi (proverb) says the combination of good lineage and possession of virtues – when a person is born into a family of upright persons and he also follows in the footsteps of the elders in his family – is like the presence of ghee in milk.
What is good conduct? Different Tamil works have defined it. Paying attention to education in one’s youth, and respecting elders are necessary, says Thrikatukam. Not coveting the wealth of others, being generous to the needy, being patient even with those who harm us, being truthful always — these are qualities to aspire for, says Yeladhi.Sirupanchamoolam says that we should shun the friendship of wicked people and that we must never use harsh words. Thrikatukam says that a man who does not protect his wife, a man whose friends are undesirable, and one who uses indecent language may be said to be a man of bad conduct. Yeladhi gives a list of qualities that a good man possesses. He is not egoistic. He does not frown upon the arrival of guests. He does not mock the poor. He provides food to the hungry before he eats. A man with these qualities will lead a happy, contented life, says Yeladhi.
Achara-k-kovai says that we should be grateful to those who have helped us; we must learn to forgive those who harm us; we must lead a life that benefits others too. Seeking the company of good people and analysing the advice that good literature gives us — these constitute a virtuous life, says Innilai.
Published – March 01, 2025 04:20 am IST
