தமக்கு லாபமோ நட்டமோ வரும் என்றால் தம்மைப் பிறர்க்கு அடிமை ஆக்குவர்; இதற்கு அன்றி வேறு எந்தத் தொழிலுக்குக் கயவர் உரியர் ஆவர்?

ஒரு துன்பம் வரும்போது அதிலிருந்து தப்பித்துக் கொள்ள, தம்மையே பிறரிடம் விற்றுவிடுகிற தகுதிதான் கயவர்களுக்குரிய தகுதியாகும்

கயவர், எதற்கு உரியவர், ஒரு துன்பம் வந்தடைந்த காலத்தில் அதற்காக தம்மை பிறர்க்கு விலையாக விற்றுவிடுவதற்கு உரியவர் ஆவர்.

The base will hasten to sell themselves as soon as a calamity has befallen them. For what else are they fitted ?

Kural 1080 deals with the character of those who are base in nature, often referred to as "kayavar" in Thirukural. These are individuals who are willing to compromise their principles and dignity in times of adversity. The verse says "The base will hasten to sell themselves as soon as a calamity has befallen them. For what else are they fitted?" This means that in times of crisis, these individuals quickly resort to selling their honor and self-respect as a means of escape. This is because they lack the moral fiber to withstand difficulties and prefer to seek an easy way out, even if it means degrading themselves. The rhetorical question at the end, "For what else are they fitted?" is a commentary on their lack of virtues and strength of character. It points out the inherent flaw in their nature, which is their readiness to give up their values when confronted with challenges. In essence, this verse is a critique of those who easily compromise their honor and integrity in the face of adversity, and it encourages the reader to cultivate resilience and moral strength to withstand any calamity.