Dread of Evil Deeds
Enaippakai Yutraarum Uyvar Vinaippakai / Veeyaadhu Pinsendru Atum
Classical English couplet — “From every enmity incurred there is to 'scape, a way;The wrath of evil deeds will dog men's steps, and slay”
What it says in plain words
“You may escape even someone who badly wants to hurt you. But the harm from your own bad actions keeps following you.”
The classical Tamil reading
எவ்வளவு கொடிய பகை உடையவரும் தப்பி வாழ முடியும், ஆனால் தீயவை செய்தால் வரும் தீவினையாகிய பகை நீங்காமல் பின் சென்று வருத்தும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
ஒருவர் நேரடியான பகைக்குத் தப்பி வாழ முடியும்; ஆனால், அவர் செய்யும் தீய வினைகள் பெரும் பகையாகி அவரைத் தொடர்ந்து வருத்திக்கொண்டே இருக்கும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Getting away from an enemy may bring you safety. But harmful actions leave lasting trouble, even after you walk away. A lie can damage trust long after people hear it. This verse asks us to fear doing harm, not just facing enemies.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You avoid spreading a rumor because its harm can outlast your anger.
- Workplace
- You report a mistake honestly instead of hiding it and risking lasting distrust.
- Family
- You avoid blaming your sibling for something you broke.
- Society
- A shopkeeper refuses to sell unsafe food, knowing the harm may last.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Think about the harm your choice could leave behind.
- Integrity
- Avoid dishonest shortcuts, even when you think nobody will notice.
- Communication
- Remember that cruel words can hurt long after a conversation ends.
- Leadership
- Do not pressure others to cause harm for quick results.
- Governance
- Consider the lasting harm of public decisions, not just immediate gains.
For leaders and teams
Teach those you guide that harm does not end when we leave. Avoid choices that hurt others, even when they seem easy.
Something to sit with
“What choice today could help you avoid causing harm that lasts?”