Conduct in the Presence of the King

Who warm them at the fire draw not too near, nor keep too much aloof;
Thus let them act who dwell beneath of warlike kings the palace-roof

Explanation
Thus let them act who dwell beneath of warlike kings the palace-roof.

Tamil Transliteration
Akalaadhu Anukaadhu Theekkaaivaar Polka
Ikalvendharch Cherndhozhuku Vaar.

To those who prize not state that kings are wont to prize,
The king himself abundant wealth supplies

Explanation
For ministers not to cover the things desired by their kings will through the kings themselves yield them everlasting wealth.

Tamil Transliteration
Mannar Vizhaipa Vizhaiyaamai Mannaraal
Manniya Aakkan Tharum.

Who would walk warily, let him of greater faults beware;
To clear suspicions once aroused is an achievement rare

Explanation
Ministers who would save themselves should avoid (the commission of) serious errors for if the king's suspicion is once roused, no one can remove it.

Tamil Transliteration
Potrin Ariyavai Potral Katuththapin
Thetrudhal Yaarkkum Aridhu.

All whispered words and interchange of smiles repress,
In presence of the men who kingly power possess

Explanation
While in the presence of the sovereign, ministers should neither whisper to nor smile at others.

Tamil Transliteration
Sevichchollum Serndha Nakaiyum Aviththozhukal
Aandra Periyaa Rakaththu.

Seek not, ask not, the secret of the king to hear;
But if he lets the matter forth, give ear

Explanation
(When the king is engaged) in secret counsel (with others), ministers should neither over-hear anything whatever nor pry into it with inquisitive questions, but (wait to) listen when it is divulged (by.

Tamil Transliteration
Epporulum Oraar Thotaraarmar Rapporulai
Vittakkaal Ketka Marai.

Knowing the signs, waiting for fitting time, with courteous care,
Things not displeasing, needful things, declare

Explanation
Knowing the (king's disposition and seeking the right time, (the minister) should in a pleasing manner suggest things such as are desirable and not disagreeable.

Tamil Transliteration
Kuripparindhu Kaalang Karudhi Veruppila
Ventupa Vetpach Cholal.

Speak pleasant things, but never utter idle word;
Not though by monarch's ears with pleasure heard

Explanation
Ministers should (always) give agreeable advice but on no occasion recommend useless actions, though requested (to do so).

Tamil Transliteration
Vetpana Solli Vinaiyila Egngnaandrum
Ketpinum Sollaa Vital.

Say not, 'He's young, my kinsman,' despising thus your king;
But reverence the glory kingly state doth bring

Explanation
Ministers should behave in accordance with the (Divine) light in the person of kings and not despise them saying, "He is our junior (in age) and connected with our family!".

Tamil Transliteration
Ilaiyar Inamuraiyar Endrikazhaar Nindra
Oliyotu Ozhukap Patum.

'We've gained his grace, boots nought what graceless acts we do',
So deem not sages who the changeless vision view

Explanation
Those whose judgement is firm will not do what is disagreeable (to the sovereign) saying (within.

Tamil Transliteration
Kolappattem Endrennik Kollaadha Seyyaar
Thulakkatra Kaatchi Yavar.

Who think 'We're ancient friends' and do unseemly things;
To these familiarity sure ruin brings

Explanation
The (foolish) claim with which a minister does unbecoming acts because of his (long) familiarity (with the king) will ensure his ruin.

Tamil Transliteration
Pazhaiyam Enakkarudhip Panpalla Seyyum
Kezhudhakaimai Ketu Tharum.