Find a Kural

Modern interpretation

Even shade or water becomes harmful if it causes illness; close relationships are no good when they repeatedly cause pain. For example, a familiar group is not a healthy one if its members constantly undermine you.

Modern interpretation

An open enemy is easier to guard against than someone who acts like a friend while secretly wishing you harm. For example, a clear competitor is safer to deal with than a partner who quietly misuses shared information.

Modern interpretation

Be alert to hostility within your own group, because it can destroy the group in a weak moment like a tool cutting a clay pot. For example, hidden factions can break a team apart when an urgent crisis arrives.

Modern interpretation

Hidden resentment in a person's mind can create many troubles and turn members of the same circle against one another. For example, an unspoken grudge in a family can spread until relatives stop supporting each other.

Modern interpretation

When serious hostility appears among relatives or close allies, it can bring many forms of harm, even lasting damage. For example, a bitter dispute over an inheritance can hurt an entire family.

Modern interpretation

When people who should stand together turn against one another, avoiding collapse becomes very difficult. For example, an organization divided by internal feuds may fail before any outside competitor defeats it.

Modern interpretation

A family or team with hidden hostility may look united outside, but it is not truly joined within. For example, coworkers can smile in a meeting while quietly working against one another.

Modern interpretation

Internal hostility steadily wears down a group's strength, just as filing wears away iron. For example, constant mistrust can slowly drain a company's best people and ideas.

Modern interpretation

Even a tiny hidden resentment can contain the power to cause great destruction. For example, a small rumor left unanswered can grow into a serious split among friends.

Modern interpretation

Living with people who do not share goodwill is like sharing a small hut with a snake: every moment feels unsafe. For example, roommates who secretly resent one another cannot relax at home.