JOIN USHe who knows how to speak knows no quarrel or dispute” goes an ancient adage. The world judges us by our words. Knowing what to speak and when, in front of whom, under what circumstances is an invaluable asset in one’s personality profile and determines his success in all his endeavours.
Modern management theory speaks of ‘Communication Skills’, both spoken and written.
It must be remembered that this is not only about effectively communicating what is to be conveyed to the other party, but also about the manner in which the thoughts and concepts are put forth, without hurting others’ feelings, without transgressing rules of propriety and so on.
“Choose your words with care” is the idea that is sought to be expressed here.
This is as far as the worldly affairs of man are concerned. In the realm of philosophical thought, speech is regarded as a gift of God, whose power is to be put to proper use.
‘Proper use’ here means speech is to be used as a vehicle to convey one’s devotion, respect and adoration for the Lord, in the form of poetry, prose, music and so on. It also entails the abstinence from using hurtful words directed at others.
This is echoed in the words of the Yajurveda which regards words as an oblation to the Gods, as an offering that is to be made with all humility, care and devotion. “O Goddess of Speech, bless me with the power to utter sweet words, words that endear me to all.
May I contemplate only such noble thoughts as make me utter words of purity and goodness.
Thus, may I utter only those words that are sweet not only to men, but are also pleasing to the ears of the Gods. May my speech be imbued with the grace and dignity that lends credence to the fact that only man is endowed with the power of speech, which he can use properly or otherwise to make or mar his reputation. By imparting this wisdom with words, may you be gracious to me.
May this wisdom bring credit not only to myself, but also to my ancestors” is the refrain of the Yajurveda.