Section IV: Destiny
Chapter 38: Destiny
Kural 371
When destiny ordains wealth, it gives birth to industriousness.
When it decrees a life of loss, it inspires only idleness.
Kural 372
That destiny which decreases prosperity increases ignorance.
That destiny which diminishes loss expands knowledge.
Kural 373
However subtle the sundry texts he studies,
a man is left with his native intelligence.
Kural 374
Two natural ways are ordained in this world.
Securing wealth is one. Seeking wisdom’s light is another.
Kural 375
In karma’s presence, sure success with wealth can fail,
and certain failure can succeed.
Kural 376
Though you guard it well, what destiny does not decree disappears.
Though you cast it aside, what destiny calls yours will not depart.
Kural 377
A man may amass millions, but its enjoyment
will never exceed the portion allotted to him.
Kural 378
The poor are practically ascetics and would renounce if only karma,
approaching with experiences yet to be, would pass them by.
Kural 379
Why should those who rejoice when destiny brings them good
moan when that same destiny decrees misfortune?
Kural 380
What is there that is mightier than destiny?
For it is present even in the plans we devise to overcome it.
