Seeking the Aid of Great Men
Aranarindhu Mooththa Arivutaiyaar Kenmai / Thiranarindhu Therndhu Kolal
Classical English couplet — “As friends the men who virtue know, and riper wisdom share,Their worth weighed well, the king should choose with care”
What it says in plain words
“Choose friends who understand what is right and have greater experience and sound judgment. Consider their character carefully, and learn how to build their friendship.”
The classical Tamil reading
அறம் உணர்ந்தவராய்த் தன்னை விட மூத்தவராய் உள்ள அறிவுடையவரின் நட்பை, கொள்ளும் வகை அறிந்து ஆராய்ந்து கொள்ள வேண்டும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
அறமுணர்ந்த மூதறிஞர்களின் நட்பைப் பெறும் வகை அறிந்து, அதனைத் தேர்ந்தெடுத்துக் கொள்ள வேண்டும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
The people we turn to can shape our choices. Look for good character and sound judgment, not just greater age. Notice how they treat others and handle difficult choices. Take care when choosing whose friendship and advice to seek.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- Before borrowing money, seek advice from an experienced friend who acts honestly.
- Workplace
- Build a friendship with an experienced coworker who treats people fairly.
- Family
- Ask a thoughtful older relative for guidance during a family disagreement.
- Society
- Seek help from experienced neighbors known for making fair choices.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider a person's character and experience before seeking their advice.
- Integrity
- Choose advisers who act honestly, even when honesty costs them.
- Communication
- Ask thoughtful questions and listen carefully to experienced people you trust.
- Leadership
- Build lasting ties with people whose good judgment can guide you.
- Governance
- Choose public advisers for their good character, experience, and sound judgment.
For leaders and teams
Choose helpers with good character and greater experience. Take time to know them and earn their friendship.
Something to sit with
“Whose good character and experience could guide you, and how might you build that friendship?”