# LXIII: Intrepidity in the Face of Misfortune explained — The Kural

> Chapter companion for The Kural by Thiruvalluvar.

## What happens

This chapter extols the virtue of facing misfortune with courage and a smile, emphasizing that a calm and resolute mind can overcome any adversity. It teaches that troubles dissipate when not feared, and that true strength lies in unwavering effort and detachment from both pleasure and pain.

## Themes in this chapter

### Asceticism and Spiritual Discipline

The chapter advocates for emotional restraint and disciplined response to misfortune, aligning with ascetic ideals of detachment.

### The Vanity of Worldly Life

It underscores the transient nature of both pleasure and pain, urging equanimity in the face of life's vicissitudes.

## Character check-ins

### the Kural

The chapter presents the Kural's teachings on intrepidity and resilience in adversity.

### Thiruvalluvar

Thiruvalluvar is the author of these verses, imparting wisdom on facing misfortune.

## Key lines

> When thou meetest with misfortune face it with thy best smile: for there is nothing like a smile to enable a man to hold his own against it.

Confront adversity with a cheerful demeanor, as a smile is the most effective tool to withstand it.

_This verse emphasizes the power of a positive attitude in overcoming hardship._

> Behold the man who is prepared to strain his every nerve like the bull-buffalo to wade through every difficulty: he may meet with obstacles but he will send them away disappointed.

The person who exerts all their effort like a mighty buffalo to overcome challenges will ultimately defeat those obstacles.

_This highlights the importance of relentless effort and determination._

> The wise know that the body is a target unto misfortune: and so they worry themselves not when they meet with a calamity.

The enlightened understand that the body is inherently vulnerable to misfortune, so they do not distress themselves when calamity strikes.

_This reflects a philosophical acceptance of life's inherent suffering._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters/lxiii-intrepidity-in-the-face-of-misfortune
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters