அடக்கத்தைச் செல்வமாக எண்ணிக் காக்க; அதைக் காட்டிலும் பெரிய செல்வம் வேறு இல்லை.

மிக்க உறுதியுடன் காக்கப்படவேண்டியது அடக்கமாகும் அடக்கத்தைவிட ஆக்கம் தரக் கூடியது வேறொன்றும் இல்லை

அடக்கத்தை உறுதிப் பொருளாகக் கொண்டு போற்றிக் ‌காக்க வேண்டும். அந்த அடக்கத்தைவிட மேம்பட்ட ஆக்கம் உயிர்க்கு இல்லை.

Let self-control be guarded as a treasure; there is no greater source of good for man than that

This verse from the Thirukkural, penned by the revered Tamil philosopher Thiruvalluvar, advocates the importance of self-control and restraint in one's life. The poet insists that self-control must be treated as a valuable asset, to be guarded and nurtured with utmost care. He unequivocally states that there is nothing else in the world that could bring greater benefits to a person than self-control. This emphasis on self-control is rooted in the fact that it allows an individual to master their emotions, desires, and impulses, which in turn helps them lead a fulfilling and virtuous life. Through self-control, one can resist temptations, avoid hasty decisions, and prevent themselves from causing harm to themselves or others. In other words, self-control is the key to maintaining one's integrity and dignity, and it lays the foundation for ethical conduct and moral living. It is a critical determinant of one's character and plays an instrumental role in shaping a person's destiny. In essence, Thiruvalluvar in this Kural verse, underscores the supremacy of self-control over all other virtues and possessions, reiterating its pivotal role in human life and wellbeing.