Question.
What does the quotation convey in the present context?
"Those who in trouble untroubled are, Will trouble trouble itself." -Thiruvalluvar
( UPSC Ethics, General Studies Paper-IV, 2025 PYQ)",
Answer.
About Thiruvalluvar:
Thiruvalluvar was born at Madurai, the capital of the Pandyas.
Thiruvalluvar was a celebrated Tamil philosopher and poet, best known for his classical work Tirukkural.
His teachings emphasize virtue, self-control, and righteous living, making them universally relevant across time.
His quote—
“Those who in trouble untroubled are, will trouble trouble itself”—highlights the virtue of mental resilience, composure, and moral strength in the face of adversity.
The quote conveys that:
If we remain calm and undisturbed during difficulties, we gain control over the situation.
Trouble loses its power when we are confronted with courage, patience, and wisdom.
In other words, if we don’t panic in adversity, adversity itself weakens.
Ethical Values in the quote:
The following ethical values are reflected in the quote:
1. Emotional Intelligence:
Managing our emotions during a crisis reflects high self-awareness and self-regulation.
2. Resilience and Patience:
Staying calm demonstrates mental strength and perseverance.
3. Practical Wisdom:
Rational thinking helps in making ethical and effective decisions during difficult times.
4. Detachment:
Similar to the idea of the Bhagavad Gita—remaining unaffected by success or failure.
Relevance in the Present Context:
The following are relevence of the quote in the present context:
1. Digital Age Stress and Social Media Pressure:
In an era of social media dominated by instant reactions (e.g., outrage culture), calmness helps avoid conflict and misinformation.
2. Public Administration and Leadership:
Civil servants must remain composed during crises like disasters, pandemics, or public unrest.
Example: Handling emergencies with clarity rather than panic.
3. Personal Life Challenges:
Job stress, failures, and uncertainties require emotional stability to make sound decisions.
4. Conflict Resolution:
Calm individuals de-escalate tensions and promote harmony in society.
Thiruvalluvar’s quote teaches that true strength lies not in avoiding problems but in remaining unshaken by them. In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, cultivating such composure ensures ethical conduct, effective leadership, and personal well-being.
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