The Right Sceptre
Kutidhazheeik Kolochchum Maanila Mannan / Atidhazheei Nirkum Ulaku
Classical English couplet — “Whose heart embraces subjects all, lord over mighty landWho rules, the world his feet embracing stands”
What it says in plain words
“People stand by a ruler who treats them with care and fairness. Such a ruler earns respect far beyond their own land.”
The classical Tamil reading
குடிகளை அன்போடு அணைத்துக் கொண்டு செங்கோல் செலுத்துகின்ற அரசனுடைய அடியைப்பொருந்தி உலகம் நிலை பெறும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
குடிமக்களை அரவணைத்து ஆட்சி நடத்தும் நல்லரசின் அடிச்சுவட்டை நானிலமே போற்றி நிற்கும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
The couplet links lasting support with a ruler's care for people. People respect leaders who listen and take their needs seriously. Care earns trust and support, whether at home or in public life. Good rule gives people a reason to stand together.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You listen kindly when a friend needs your help.
- Workplace
- A manager supports an overwhelmed worker by sharing tasks fairly.
- Family
- A parent hears each child's needs before setting household rules.
- Society
- A town council listens to residents before changing local services.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider how your choice will affect the people who depend on you.
- Integrity
- Show the care you promise through your everyday actions.
- Communication
- Listen to people's concerns and answer them with respect.
- Leadership
- Build support by treating people fairly and caring about their needs.
- Governance
- Make fair rules that reflect care for everyone you serve.
For leaders and teams
Make care for the people you lead part of every decision. Their trust grows when they feel heard and treated fairly.
Something to sit with
“How could you show more care toward someone affected by your decisions today?”