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Chapter 7 of 133Virtue

மக்கட்பேறு

The Wealth of Children

Read all ten original Tamil couplets from this chapter with clear, modern interpretations for everyday learning.

Kurals

6170

Reading

10 couplets

Section

அறத்துப்பால்

A simple reading path

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Tamil + modern meaning

Kural 61

1 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

பெறுமவற்றுள் யாமறிவது இல்லை அறிவறிந்த

மக்கட்பேறு அல்ல பிற.

Modern interpretation

Among life's many gains, children who learn, think clearly, and live with good judgment are among the greatest blessings. The emphasis is on wisdom and character, not merely academic marks. For example, a child who uses knowledge to solve problems fairly and help others brings lasting joy to the family.

Read Kural 61 in full

Kural 62

2 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

எழுபிறப்பும் தீயவை தீண்டா பழிபிறங்காப்

பண்புடை மக்கட் பெறின்.

Modern interpretation

Children who grow into honest and compassionate adults can bring honour and lasting good to their family. The reference to many births expresses how far-reaching that influence can be across generations. For example, a child who becomes known for fairness and service inspires younger relatives and strengthens the family's reputation for years.

Read Kural 62 in full

Kural 63

3 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

தம்பொருள் என்பதம் மக்கள் அவர்பொருள்

தம்தம் வினையான் வரும்.

Modern interpretation

Children are a family's true wealth because their character and actions can carry its values into the future. This wealth is not ownership or control; it is the good influence children create through their own choices. For example, an adult child who serves the community and treats people well extends the care and teaching they received.

Read Kural 63 in full

Kural 64

4 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

அமிழ்தினும் ஆற்ற இனிதேதம் மக்கள்

சிறுகை அளாவிய கூழ்.

Modern interpretation

A simple meal can feel precious when it is connected with a child's affection and innocence. The verse reminds us that love gives ordinary moments extraordinary value. For example, a parent may treasure a small snack prepared or shared by a child more than an expensive restaurant meal.

Read Kural 64 in full

Kural 65

5 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

மக்கள்மெய் தீண்டல் உடற்கின்பம் மற்று அவர்

சொற்கேட்டல் இன்பம் செவிக்கு.

Modern interpretation

Parents often experience a special joy in holding their children and hearing them speak. These small moments create emotional bonds that cannot be replaced by material comfort. For example, a tired parent may feel renewed when a child gives them a hug or excitedly describes something learned that day.

Read Kural 65 in full

Kural 66

6 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

குழல் இனிது யாழ்இனிது என்பதம் மக்கள்

மழலைச்சொல் கேளா தவர்.

Modern interpretation

The playful sounds of a child can be more precious to a loving parent than beautiful music. The verse uses exaggeration to show the emotional delight of family affection. For example, a parent may enjoy a child's imperfect song or funny story more than a polished performance by a professional musician.

Read Kural 66 in full

Kural 67

7 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

தந்தை மகற்காற்று நன்றி அவையத்து

முந்தி இருப்பச் செயல்.

Modern interpretation

A parent's greatest gift is to help a child gain knowledge, judgment, and confidence. Education should prepare the child to participate meaningfully among wise and capable people, not simply collect certificates. For example, a parent who encourages reading, questions, and independent thinking gives a child tools for life.

Read Kural 67 in full

Kural 68

8 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

தம்மின்தம் மக்கள் அறிவுடைமை மாநிலத்து

மன்னுயிர்க் கெல்லாம் இனிது.

Modern interpretation

When children become wise and capable, their benefit reaches beyond their own parents. Knowledgeable and ethical people can improve workplaces, communities, and society as a whole. For example, a well-educated young person who develops a useful solution or helps others brings joy to the family and value to many people.

Read Kural 68 in full

Kural 69

9 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

ஈன்ற பொழுதின் பெரிதுவக்கும் தன்மகனைச்

சான்றோன் எனக்கேட்ட தாய்.

Modern interpretation

A parent feels great joy when others recognize a child for wisdom and good character. The verse says this praise can be even more meaningful than the happiness of the child's birth. For example, a mother may feel especially proud when a teacher says her child is honest, thoughtful, and helpful to classmates.

Read Kural 69 in full

Kural 70

10 of 10

Tamil original · தமிழ்

மகன்தந்தைக்கு ஆற்றும் உதவி இவன்தந்தை

என்நோற்றான் கொல் எனும் சொல்.

Modern interpretation

A child's best way of repaying a parent's care is to live so well that others admire the values they were taught. This honour comes from conduct, not fame or wealth. For example, when an adult child acts honestly, helps others, and takes responsibility, people may say that the parents raised them exceptionally well.

Read Kural 70 in full