Abstract
Sangam literature reveals that the ancient Tamils not only valued humanity but also expressed compassion towards other forms of life. In this study, humanity is understood in two dimensions: the compassion human beings extend towards one another and the compassion they show towards other living beings. A sense of self-awareness and an understanding of the wider world are essential for fostering harmony, solidarity, and fraternity among people. Since human existence is shaped by the body, life, and mind, maintaining physical and mental well-being is fundamental to sustaining life. In this context, the cultivation of compassion and humane values contributes to inner harmony and social well-being. The innate sense of self-awareness found in human beings finds expression in diverse social and environmental contexts. Against this background, this research examines the expressions of humanity found in Mullaippattu, one of the classical Tamil texts composed by Napputhanar. The study analyses the ways in which the text reflects compassion towards human beings and other forms of life, thereby revealing the humane and ethical dimensions of Sangam thought.