# LXXXVIII: The Appraising of Enemies explained — The Kural

> Chapter companion for The Kural by Thiruvalluvar.

## What happens

This chapter advises against courting enmity, especially with those skilled in speech, and counsels princes to avoid unnecessary conflict, to convert enemies into allies when possible, to never reveal weaknesses, and to humble the pride of defiant foes before they grow too powerful.

## Themes in this chapter

### Statecraft and Governance

The chapter provides strategic advice on managing enemies, forming alliances, and consolidating power.

### Social Harmony and Ethics

Warns against provoking enmity and advocates for converting foes into allies to maintain social order.

## Character check-ins

### Thiruvalluvar

Author of the Kural verses on enmity and statecraft.

### the Kural

The text containing the maxims on appraising enemies.

## Key lines

> The accursed thing called enmity should never be courted willingly even though it be only in jest.

Do not intentionally seek out enemies, even as a joke.

_Highlights the danger of treating enmity lightly._

> Even if thou challenge the men whose weapon is the bow, provoke not the men whose weapon is their tongue.

It is safer to challenge warriors than to anger those skilled in rhetoric.

_Emphasizes the power of words over physical force._

> Behold the prince that hath no allies but challengeth to war a multitude of foes: he is more insane than even a madman.

A ruler who picks a fight with many enemies without allies is utterly foolish.

_Critiques reckless aggression without support._

> Behold the prince that hath the tact to convert enemies into allies: his power will last without end.

A ruler who can turn enemies into friends secures lasting power.

_Praises diplomatic skill and alliance-building._

> If thou hast to contend alone and without allies against two enemies, try to gain over one of them to thy side.

When outnumbered, seek to divide and win over one opponent.

_Strategic advice for asymmetric conflict._

> Whether thou hast decided to make a neighbour thy friend or thine enemy, do not make him either when thou art embarrassed, but leave him alone.

Do not decide on friendship or enmity with a neighbor when you are in distress; instead, avoid the decision.

_Warns against making strategic choices under duress._

> Reveal not thy troubles to men who know it not: neither expose thy weaknesses to thine enemies.

Keep your problems and vulnerabilities hidden from strangers and foes.

_Emphasizes secrecy and caution._

> Form a wise plan, consolidate thy resources, and provide for thy defences: if thou do this, it will not be long before the pride of thy enemies is humbled to the dust.

Prepare carefully and strengthen your position; soon your enemies will be brought low.

_Advocates for preparation and patience._

> Fell down thorn-trees while yet they are young: for when they are overgrown they will themselves cut the hand that attempteth to fell them.

Destroy threats early before they become too strong to handle.

_Metaphor for preemptive action against growing dangers._

> Verily they shall not last long, those who humble not the pride of men who defy them.

Those who fail to subdue defiant opponents will not endure.

_Stresses the necessity of asserting authority._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters/lxxxviii-the-appraising-of-enemies
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters