The Kural · Chapter
LXXXI: Intimacy explained
This chapter defines intimacy as a friendship that endures all liberties taken by the beloved, emphasizing that true friendship is marked by mutual ease, forgiveness, and unwavering affection even in the face of harm.
What happens
This chapter defines intimacy as a friendship that endures all liberties taken by the beloved, emphasizing that true friendship is marked by mutual ease, forgiveness, and unwavering affection even in the face of harm.
Themes in this chapter
Social Harmony and Ethics
The chapter discusses the ethical bonds of friendship and the harmony achieved through mutual forbearance.
Characters to notice
- the Kural
The chapter's verses articulate the nature of intimacy in friendship.
Key passages
“That friendship is called intimacy which submitteth without resenting to all the freedoms taken by the beloved one.”
True intimacy is a friendship that accepts without offense any liberties the beloved takes.
Defines intimacy as unresisting acceptance of a friend's familiarities.
“Behold the man who loveth another with a deathless affection: the whole world will hold him dear.”
One who loves with undying affection is cherished by all the world.
Highlights the universal esteem earned by steadfast love.