Renunciation
Ventin Un Taakath Thurakka / Thurandhapin Eentuiyar Paala Pala
Classical English couplet — “'Renunciation' made- ev'n here true pleasures men acquire;'Renounce' while time is yet, if to those pleasures you aspire”
What it says in plain words
“If you want freedom from suffering, let go of possessions while you still have them. Many joys in this world remain after you let go.”
The classical Tamil reading
துன்பமில்லாத நிலைமை வேண்டுமானால் எல்லாப் பொருள்களும் உள்ள காலத்திலேயெ துறக்க வேண்டும்,துறந்த பின் இங்குப் பெறக்கூடும் இன்பங்கள் பல.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
ஒருவனைத் துன்பம் துளைத்தெடுக்காமல் இருக்க எல்லாம் இருக்கும் போதே அவற்றைக் துறந்து விடுவானேயானால், அவன் உலகில் பெறக்கூடிய இன்பங்கள் பலவாகும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
The couplet asks us to let go before loss forces us. Holding tightly to what we own can bring worry and pain. Its message is to let go while you have plenty. This leaves room for joys that do not depend on possessions.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You give away unused belongings and enjoy having less to look after.
- Workplace
- You stop seeking a bigger office and enjoy doing useful work.
- Family
- You choose time together instead of buying more things for the home.
- Society
- Neighbors share tools rather than each buying their own.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Ask whether another purchase will bring joy or more worry.
- Integrity
- Keep your promise to give, even when you feel attached to your belongings.
- Communication
- Talk about what you enjoy beyond the things you own.
- Leadership
- Give up extra comforts so others can use what they need.
- Governance
- Choose useful public services over costly displays of wealth.
For leaders and teams
Show others how to value more than possessions through your choices. Practice letting go while you still have plenty.
Something to sit with
“What could you let go of today to make room for other joys?”