How Do You Spell THIRUVALLUVAR?

Pronunciation: [θˈɜːɹuːvˌaluːvˌɑː] (IPA)

Thiruvalluvar refers to a Tamil poet and philosopher who has authored the renowned Thirukkural. This word is spelled as /tɪrʊvəlluːvər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word comprises three syllables where the first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the second syllable pronounced with a schwa sound, and the third syllable pronounced with a long "oo" sound. The correct spelling of Thiruvalluvar is essential to ensure proper pronunciation and recognition of the name of the poet and his contribution to literature.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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THIRUVALLUVAR Meaning and Definition

  1. Thiruvalluvar is a term primarily associated with Tamil literature and culture. It refers to a revered Tamil poet and philosopher who is widely regarded as one of the greatest contributors to Tamil literature. Thiruvalluvar is most famous for his iconic work called the Thirukkural, which is a collection of 1,330 couplets or verses that encapsulate profound and ethical teachings.

    Born in the ancient city of Mylapore, also known as Thirumayilai, in present-day Chennai, Thiruvalluvar is believed to have lived between the 3rd and 1st century BCE. However, significant debate surrounds his exact time period and historical details, and many regard him as a mythical figure.

    The thought and wisdom expressed in the Thirukkural cover a wide range of topics, including ethics, morality, love, governance, and spirituality, making it a universal treasure of literature. Thirukkural promotes virtues such as honesty, righteousness, compassion, and respect towards others. Its poems are largely didactic and aim to guide individuals towards leading a righteous and ethical life.

    Thiruvalluvar's works have had a deep impact on Tamil society, influencing both individual conduct and social systems. Scholars, poets, and philosophers throughout history have extensively studied the Thirukkural and have written commentaries and translations to elucidate its meaning and teachings.

    Due to his immense contribution to Tamil literature and his enduring influence on people's lives, Thiruvalluvar holds a revered status in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil-speaking communities worldwide. Statues and monuments in his honor can be found across Tamil Nadu, symbolizing his significant role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil people.

Etymology of THIRUVALLUVAR

The word "Thiruvalluvar" is derived from two components: "Thiru" and "Valluvar".

1. "Thiru": The term "Thiru" is a Tamil honorific prefix used to denote respect or divinity. It is similar to the Hindi word "Sri" or the English word "Mr". or "Ms". In this case, "Thiru" is used as a prefix to signify reverence.

2. "Valluvar": "Valluvar" is the surname or family name of the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. The term is believed to be derived from two Tamil words: "Valluvan" and "Aar" or "Aan".

- "Valluvan" means "teacher" or "scholar" in Tamil.