Thirukkural and Society: A Timeless Ethical Framework for Contemporary Social, Educational, and Governance Values

Abstract

In contrast, the Thirukkural composed by the Tamil sage Thiruvalluvar is one of the most comprehensive and profound ethical, social and behavioral manuals ever written by man. It is composed of 1,330 couplets, in which the author discusses the virtues (aram), material and political life (porul), and love (inbam), and offers a comprehensive moral philosophy that goes above and beyond time and culture. Today, Thirukkural continues to influence discussions on personal well-being, sustainability, governance and education, and is more than two millennia old. It examines its continued significance in contemporary society, highlighting its philosophical framework, civic ideals, and pedagogical flexibility. Thirukkural is a book that teaches readers the values of justice, compassion, moderation, and self-control, and provides timeless lessons for leadership, policy-making, and civic ethics. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential for a dynamic, new, and fresh interpretation of classical ethical wisdom to nurture integrity, social justice and sustainable human development in today’s world.