இல்லை என்று சொல்வதைக் கேட்ட உடனே பிச்சை எடுப்பவரிடமிருந்து போய் விடும் உயிர், இல்லை என்று சொல்பவர்க்கு மட்டும் போகாமல் எங்கே போய் ஒளிந்து கொள்கிறது?

இருப்பதை ஒளித்துக்கொண்டு `இல்லை' என்பவர்களின் சொல்லைக் கேட்டவுடன், இரப்போரின் உயிரே போய் விடுகிறதே; அப்படிச் சொல்பவர்களின் உயிர் மட்டும் எங்கே ஒளிந்துகொண்டு இருக்குமோ?

இரப்பவர் இல்லை என்று சொல்கின்ற அளவிலேயே உயிர் போகின்றதே, உள்ளதை இல்லை என்று ஒளிப்பவர்க்கு உயிர் எங்கு ஒளிந்திருக்குமோ.

Saying "No" to a beggar takes away his life. (but as that very word will kill the refuser) where then would the latter's life hide itself ?

This verse from the Thirukkural emphasizes the moral and ethical obligation one has towards the less fortunate. It underscores the importance of generosity and the serious consequences of denying aid to those in need. The verse says that when a person who has the means to help refuses to do so, it is akin to taking away the life of the beggar. This metaphorical 'killing' of the beggar is because the refusal deprives him of his means to survive. The latter part of the verse then poses a rhetorical question: "Where then would the latter's (the refuser's) life hide itself?" This implies that the act of refusal would also have dire consequences for the refuser himself. The underlying message is that when one has the means to help but chooses not to, it not only harms the person in need but also the person refusing. It could mean a spiritual or moral death for the refuser as they have failed in their duty of compassion and generosity. This verse subtly highlights the principle of karma - the belief that our actions, whether good or bad, will eventually return to us in some form. In the cultural context, Thiruvalluvar, the author of Thirukkural, places high value on generosity and sees it as a fundamental duty of a virtuous person. This verse is a reminder of our shared humanity and our responsibility towards each other, particularly towards those less fortunate. In summary, the verse is a stern warning against selfishness and a strong reminder of the importance of generosity and compassion.