Page:The Kural or The Maxims Of Tiruvalluvar.pdf/100

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PART I RIGHTEOUSNESS
 

CHAPTER 19

REFERAINING FROM SLANDER

181. Behold the man who doeth iniquity and who speaketh not so much as the name of righteousness : it is sweet even unto him if men say, Lo, here is one who backbiteth not.

182. It is wrong to turn away from good and do evil: but it is far worse to smile before and vilify behind.

183. It is worthier to die at once than live by lying and slander: for such a death bringeth with it the fruits of righteousness.

184. Slander not a man behind his back even though he hath insulted thee to thy very face.

185. The lips may speak righteousness : but a slanderous tongue betrayeth the meanness of the heart.

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