Abstract
This paper examines the foundational virtue of Eegai (benevolence, charity, and giving) as articulated in ancient Tamil Sangam literature, its commentaries, and the ethical treatise Thirukkural. It analyses the structural classification of giving, the emotional intelligence required to perceive unuttered structural poverty, and the philosophical distinction between transactional and unconditional altruism. Through textual analysis of works like Purananuru, Manimekalai, and the commentaries of Parimelazhagar, Kalingar, and Manakkudavar, this study demonstrates how ancient Tamil society elevated charity from a mere social duty to the ultimate purpose of human existence.
Keywords: Sangam Literature, Īgai, Thirukkural, Philanthropy, Tamil Ethics, Altruism.
How to cite: M.O.Rajasekar. “The Paradigm of Benevolence (Eegai) in Sangam Literature and Thirukkural”. Perunthanmai Multidisciplinary Tamil Studies Book Series (PMTSB) : Ancient Tamil World, 1st ed., vol. 2, Poet Publication and Printers, 2026, pp. 30–35, https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.24138990
