Thirukkural – 389
King who tolerates words bitter to his ears,
under his protection does the world abide.
செவிகைப்பச் சொற்பொறுக்கும் பண்புடை வேந்தன்
கவிகைக்கீழ்த் தங்கு முலகு.
When a ruler deviates from justice, his ministers have to advice him and point out his mistakes. If a ruler can tolerate those bitter words and listen to them, then the world will abide by his rule.
A ruler who wants to rule the world should be open to hear harsh words from his advisors. The word கவிகை mean Umbrella / parasol. It was a symbol of royalty. Since this is not so common in English speaking world, I have used protection.
கைத்தல் – bitter
கவிகை – umbrella / parasol / protection
Old Tamil Poetry 