# LXX: Comporting Oneself Before Princes explained — The Kural

> Chapter companion for The Kural by Thiruvalluvar.

## What happens

This chapter offers counsel on how to behave in the presence of a prince or ruler, emphasizing discretion, humility, and awareness of one's position. It warns against familiarity, gossip, and presumption, advising that one should speak pleasingly but avoid unprofitable truths, and never exploit intimacy to act unworthily.

## Themes in this chapter

### Statecraft and Governance

Directly addresses the conduct of courtiers and ministers in relation to the ruler, a key aspect of governance.

### Social Harmony and Ethics

Emphasizes proper social behavior and ethical restraint to maintain harmony in the royal presence.

## Character check-ins

### Thiruvalluvar

Author of the Kural; provides aphoristic advice on courtly conduct.

### the Kural

The text itself, from which the chapter's maxims are drawn.

## Key lines

> Whoever desireth to move with princes, let him be like unto the men that warm themselves at a fire: let him not approach too near nor stand too far away.

One who wishes to associate with rulers should maintain a balanced distance, neither too familiar nor too aloof.

_Uses the metaphor of warming at a fire to illustrate the need for measured proximity._

> Not to itch for those things that the prince desireth: that is the secret of acquiring his lasting favour and thereby growing in affluence.

Avoid coveting what the prince wants; this restraint earns lasting favor and prosperity.

_Advises against competing with the ruler's desires as a strategy for gaining trust._

> Speak not in whispers in the presence of the great ones: nor smile to another’s face when they are near.

Do not whisper or exchange private smiles in the presence of the powerful.

_Warns against behavior that might be interpreted as secretive or disrespectful._

> Trifle not with the prince because he is young or because he is thy kinsman or connection: but walk with awe before the light that is within him.

Do not take liberties with the prince due to his youth or your relationship; instead, revere the inner authority he embodies.

_Emphasizes respect for the office of the prince regardless of personal ties._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters/lxx-comporting-oneself-before-princes
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters