# XLIV: Eschewing of Faults explained — The Kural

> Chapter companion for The Kural by Thiruvalluvar.

## What happens

This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and the avoidance of faults such as haughtiness, anger, parsimony, and overconfidence. It advises princes and individuals to guard against weaknesses, correct their own faults before judging others, and maintain discretion to thwart enemies.

## Themes in this chapter

### Virtue and Righteousness

The chapter focuses on cultivating virtue by eschewing faults like haughtiness, anger, and parsimony.

### Statecraft and Governance

Specific advice is given to princes regarding faults such as parsimony and overconfidence, highlighting the importance of self-correction in leadership.

## Character check-ins

### Thiruvalluvar

Author of the Kural, providing moral teachings on eschewing faults.

### the Kural

The text itself, containing the verses on fault avoidance.

## Key lines

> Behold the man who is free from haughtiness and anger and the vulgar passion: there is a dignity about him that adorneth his prosperity.

A person who avoids pride, anger, and base desires possesses a dignity that enhances their success.

_Opening verse emphasizing the value of humility and self-control._

> Guard thyself jealously against weaknesses: for they are the foes that will lead thee to ruin.

Protect yourself carefully from your own flaws, as they are enemies that can destroy you.

_Warning about the destructive power of personal weaknesses._

> If the prince correcteth his own faults and then looketh into those of others, where is the ill that can approach him?

A ruler who first reforms himself before judging others is invulnerable to harm.

_Advice on leadership and moral authority._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters/xliv-eschewing-of-faults
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters