கல்லாதான் ஒட்பம் கழியநன் றாயினும்
கொள்ளார் அறிவுடை யார். 404
The unread's wit though excellent Is not valued by the savant
படித்தவர் முன் பேசினால் படிக்காதவரின் பெருமை குறைந்து போகும்.
- சாலமன் பாப்பையா
கல்வி கற்காதவனுக்கு இயற்கையாகவே அறிவு இருந்தாலும்கூட, அவனைக் கல்வியில் சிறந்தோன் என்று அறிவுடையோர் ஒப்புக் கொள்ள மாட்டார்கள்
- மு.கருணாநிதி
கல்லாதவனுடைய அறிவுடைய ஒருக்கால் மிக நன்றாக இருந்தாலும் அறிவுடையோர் அதனை அறிவின் பகுதியாக ஏற்றுக்கொள்ள மாட்டார்.
- மு.வரதராசனார்
Although the natural knowledge of an unlearned man may be very good, the wise will not accept for true knowledge
- Unknown
Kural 404 discusses the difference between acquired knowledge through education and innate wisdom. While innate wisdom or natural intelligence may be commendable, it does not hold the same value or recognition in the eyes of the learned individuals as compared to knowledge gained through formal education or self-learning.
The verse highlights the importance of structured learning and education, which not only imparts knowledge but also provides a framework to apply it effectively. It suggests that even when an uneducated person possesses good natural intelligence, it may not be considered as valuable or 'true knowledge' by those who have gained formal education.
This is because structured learning not only equips an individual with knowledge but also gives them the ability to analyze, reason, and apply that knowledge in various circumstances. Therefore, the verse emphasizes the criticality of education in shaping an individual's intellect and wisdom.
This does not undermine the value of natural intelligence, but rather underscores the importance of honing and enhancing it through formal education. The verse conveys the message that formal education and learning are essential to be recognized and respected in society, despite the natural intelligence one might possess.
However, this Kural should not be interpreted as a depreciation of innate wisdom or intelligence, but a recognition that education gives a structure and depth to the raw intelligence, making it more acceptable and appreciable.
- ChatGPT 4