Farming
Uzhavinaar Kaimmatangin Illai Vizhaivadhooum / Vittemen Paarkkum Nilai
Classical English couplet — “For those who 've left what all men love no place is found,When they with folded hands remain who till the ground”
What it says in plain words
“If farmers stop growing food, even those who give up worldly wants cannot survive. Everyone depends on farmers for food.”
The classical Tamil reading
உழவருடைய கை, தொழில் செய்யாமல் மடங்கியிருக்குமானால், விரும்புகின்ற எந்தப் பற்றையும் விட்டுவிட்டோம் என்று கூறும் துறவிகளுக்கும் வாழ்வு இல்லை.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
எல்லாப் பற்றையும் விட்டுவிட்டதாகக் கூறும் துறவிகள்கூட உழவரின் கையை எதிர்பார்த்துதான் வாழ வேண்டும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Some people give up money and comfort to live simply. Yet they still need food grown by someone else. Their way of life rests on the work of farmers. This verse reminds us that farming supports every kind of life.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- At lunch, you remember the farmers who grew your food.
- Workplace
- A kitchen team values the growers who supply its vegetables.
- Family
- A parent explains that even the simplest meal depends on farmers.
- Society
- A community supports local growers whose harvests feed its people.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider how your choices affect the people who grow food.
- Integrity
- Acknowledge your need for farmers, even when you live simply.
- Communication
- Speak about farmers with respect for the work they do.
- Leadership
- Help your group understand where its food comes from.
- Governance
- Support farmers so they can keep growing food for everyone.
For leaders and teams
Remember that everyone needs farmers, whatever their role or beliefs. Teach others to value the work that keeps them fed.
Something to sit with
“How could you show more care for the farmers behind your meals today?”