Social Values and Ethical Life in the Pathinenkilkanakku Literature

Abstract

The Pathinenkilkanakku texts occupy a distinctive position within the tradition of Tamil ethical literature. Their ethical vision extends beyond individual morality and emphasizes the broader social consequences of individual actions within the family, community, society, and the wider world. Accordingly, these texts present ethical conduct as a foundation for harmonious social life and collective well-being. Values such as love, generosity, hospitality, sharing food, maintaining harmonious relationships with relatives and the community, mutual assistance, and alleviating the suffering of others are presented as essential forms of social virtue. This study examines the concept of social ethics (Samuthaya Aram) articulated in the ethical works of the Pathinenkilkanakku corpus. It focuses on the ways in which these texts connect individual conduct with social responsibility and collective welfare. Particular attention is given to ethical practices that promote compassion, reciprocity, social cohesion, mutual support, and concern for others. The study further analyses how the ethical principles represented in these works contribute to the formation of harmonious interpersonal and community relationships. The findings indicate that the Pathinenkilkanakku tradition presents morality not merely as a matter of personal discipline but as a socially oriented ethical framework in which individual actions carry consequences for the well-being of others. Thus, the social ethical thought embedded in these texts demonstrates the significance of love, generosity, hospitality, sharing, mutual responsibility, and humanitarian concern in shaping a balanced and harmonious society.