The Kural or the Maxims of Tiruvalluvar/Chapter 64
SECTION ii
THE MEMBERS OF THE BODY POLITIC
CHAPTER 64
THE COUNCILLOR OF STATE
631. Behold the man who judgeth aright the ways and means of achieving great enterprises and the proper season to commence them : he is the proper man for the Council.
632. Study, resolution, manly exertion, and loving attention to the welfare of the people, these four make along with the last the five qualifications of the Councillor.
633. He is the able minister who possesseth the capacity to disunite allies, to cherish and keep up existing friendships, and to reunite those who have become enemies.
634. Judgment in the choice of projects and the means of their execution, and positiveness in the expression of opinion are necessary qualities in the Councillor.
635. Behold the man who knoweth the law and aboundeth in instruction, is deliberate in his speech and always understandeth what is fit for each occasion : he is the Councillor for thee.
636. What is there that is too subtle fo men who add knowledge of books unto natural intelligence ?
637. Even though thou art wise in thy knowledge of books, gather thou the wisdom of experience and act in accordance therewith.
638. The prince may be a fool and may thwart him at every step : but the duty of the Councillor is always to point to him what is just and proper.
639. Behold the minister that sitteth in the Council and plotteth the ruin of his prince: he is more dangerous than seven hundred million enemies.
640. The irresolute may even plan perfectly: but they will waver in the course of the execution and will never accomplish their designs.
