Domestic Mores [from 'proverbs 400' In Tamil] Poem by Rajendran Muthiah

387. Huge wealth, high-born clan, possession of the king,
being identifiable by the king
aren't the desired things for this and the next birth.
Knowing oneself is the prime duty in life.

388. Those who adopt ascetic ways, control
their senses, be pure in mind, words and body,
do timely acts to reach heaven, liken to
those building paddy-nests in Kolli-hills.

389. No use of the body that quits saintly life
after making the friends rich, ruining the foes,
loving and living with the sharp-teethed, silk worn
tabret-hipped maids.

390. They don't live at home or renounce but pass time
idly; have no daring mind to stand amidst
and lead. They bear the pole of the kavadi[bow-carrier]
removing all the peacock feathers.

391. The humans show respect and fear towards wealth,
fame, strength, grace, youth and high-born family.
But the Lord of Death doesn't care on these things.
People, though have these things can't escape His noose

392. Desire for not treating the guests, conducting
festivals and giving th' beggars starts hunger.
Desire to use wealth to self, kicks th' man to hell.
That arrow pierces through life to make strife.