The Kural · Chapter
LXVII: Decision of Character explained
This chapter emphasizes the paramount importance of willpower and determination in achieving greatness.
What happens
This chapter emphasizes the paramount importance of willpower and determination in achieving greatness. It advises that true achievement stems from resolute purpose, discretion in revealing plans, and perseverance through obstacles. The wise act with foresight, avoid premature disclosure, and persist despite hardships, as the world esteems those who accomplish great deeds.
Themes in this chapter
Asceticism and Spiritual Discipline
The chapter extols mental fortitude and self-discipline in pursuing one's purpose despite suffering.
Statecraft and Governance
The emphasis on resolute action and discretion in revealing plans is directly applicable to kingly duties and leadership.
Characters to notice
- Thiruvalluvar
Author of the Kural verses on decision of character and willpower.
- the Kural
The text itself, containing the teachings on resolve and perseverance.
Key passages
“Greatness of achievement is nought else but the greatness of the will that striveth therefor: all other things come not near the mark.”
The magnitude of what you achieve is simply the magnitude of your will to achieve it; nothing else matters as much.
Core thesis of the chapter: willpower is the primary determinant of success.
“To avoid all action that is bound to fail and not to turn away from one’s purpose because of obstacles: these two are said to be the guiding principles of the wise.”
The wise avoid doomed efforts but also refuse to abandon their goal when faced with difficulties.
Balanced wisdom: discernment in choosing battles, yet steadfastness in chosen ones.
“The man of action letteth his purpose appear only when that purpose is achieved: for an untimely disclosure would create obstacles that cannot be surmounted.”
A person of action reveals their goal only after accomplishing it, because revealing it too early invites insurmountable obstacles.
Emphasis on strategic secrecy and discretion.
“Behold the man who hath acquired a name for the doing of great deeds: his services will be greatly in request with the prince and will be esteemed by all.”
A person renowned for great achievements will be sought after by rulers and respected by everyone.
Social and political rewards of a reputation for accomplishment.
“That which they will, men acquire even in the manner that they will, provided they will with all their might.”
People get what they want, exactly as they want it, if they want it with their whole strength.
The power of wholehearted desire and effort.
“Despise not a man for his look: for there are men who are even as the axle pin of the mighty rolling car.”
Do not judge someone by appearance; some people are as crucial as the axle pin of a great chariot.
Warning against superficial judgments; hidden potential.