3.4.3. An alternative social scenario: Sharing wealth

So far we have been examining situations where people either claimed or were assigned status on the basis of their wealth. However, there were other possibilities as well; situations where men who were generous were respected, while those who were miserly or simply accumulated wealth for themselves were despised.

In this chunk, we observe that the social dynamics regarding wealth were not solely based on the amount one had. Instead, the way wealth was treated mattered significantly. Generosity was valued, as it not only demonstrated character but also fostered relationships and community support. In contrast, those who hoarded wealth without regard for others were looked down upon. This illustrates a societal belief that financial resources should serve the greater good rather than be possessed solely for personal benefit.

Consider a modern scenario where a wealthy individual regularly donates to local charities and supports community projects. This person is likely respected and admired within their community. In contrast, a wealthy neighbor who refuses to help others, despite having the means, may earn disdain or be viewed negatively by those around them. This reflects how individual behavior concerning wealth impacts social perceptions.

One area where these values were cherished was ancient Tamilakam, where, as we saw earlier (Chapter 2), there were several chiefdoms around 2,000 years ago. Amongst other things, the chiefs were patrons of bards and poets who sang their praise. Poems included in the Tamil Sangam anthologies often illuminate social and economic relationships, suggesting that while there were differences between rich and poor, those who controlled resources were also expected to share them.

This chunk highlights the cultural context of ancient Tamilakam, emphasizing that social values were intertwined with artistic expression. The chiefs, who were wealthy, took on the role of patrons, indicating that their wealth was not only for personal gain but also to support and elevate the community through the arts. The Tamil Sangam literature reinforces this idea by documenting how these chiefs were expected to use their resources in a way that benefited society, thus cementing a moral obligation to share wealth.

Similar to how contemporary philanthropists like Bill Gates and Warren Buffet allocate portions of their wealth to charitable foundations and initiatives, the Tamil chiefs saw value in uplifting their communities. Their generosity created a cycle of support, where the arts flourished, and the society collectively prospered, illustrating that wealth can serve a greater purpose beyond mere accumulation.

In this composition from the Puranaruru, one of the anthologies of poems of the Tamil Sangam literature (c. first century CE), a bard describes his patron to other poets thus: He (i.e. the patron) doesn’t have the wealth to lavish on others everyday Nor does he have the pettiness to say that he has nothing and so refuse!

This chunk introduces a specific poem from Tamil Sangam literature that characterizes a patron. The bard appreciates the patron's goodwill, highlighting that even if the patron does not have the abundant wealth to give away, he maintains an attitude of generosity and openness. The poem stresses that even modest contributions and the willingness to help have a significant impact. The distinction here is crucial; wealth is not solely quantified by its amount but also by the spirit in which it is shared.

Imagine a local community leader who may not have much money but consistently volunteers their time and resources—like providing food for community meals or offering support to local events. Just as the Tamil chief is appreciated for not being miserly but generous in spirit, this community leader embodies the same values, showing that wealth comes in various forms beyond mere money.

If we request him, showing him our ribs thin with hunger, he will go to the blacksmith of his village And will say to that man of powerful hands: “Shape me a long spear for war, one that has a straight blade!”

This excerpt reflects not only the expectation of the patron to provide for the bards but also illustrates the social contract between them. The bards, in dire need, convey their hunger metaphorically, presenting their plight to their patron in hopes of receiving support. The patron's action of commissioning a spear signifies their responsibility to protect and support the community, emphasizing the role of resource control and leadership tied to generosity and mutual aid.

Similar to how community leaders might fund local infrastructure improvements—like parks or community centers—this excerpt from Tamil literature speaks to a reciprocal relationship between resource holders and those in need, underscoring an age-old social obligation that resonates even in today's communal practices.

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