ஒழுக்கம், அதை உடையவர்க்குச் சிறப்பைத் தருவதால் உயிரைக் காட்டிலும் மேலானதாக அதைக் காக்க வேண்டும்.

ஒருவர்க்கு உயர்வு தரக் கூடியது ஒழுக்கம் என்பதால், அந்த ஒழுக்கமே உயிரைவிட மேலானதாகப் போற்றப்படுகிறது

ஒழுக்கமே எல்லார்க்கும் மேன்மையைத் தருவதாக இருப்பதால், அந்த ஒழுக்கமே உயிரை விடச் சிறந்ததாகப் போற்றப்படும்.

Propriety of conduct leads to eminence, it should therefore be preserved more carefully than life

Kural 131 emphasizes the paramount importance of 'Ozhukkam' (propriety or ethical conduct). According to the verse, such ethical conduct is the key to attaining eminence and respect in society. Therefore, it is so vital that it should be preserved and upheld even more carefully than one's life. The essence of this verse lies in the belief that life without ethics or proper conduct is meaningless and devoid of value. Thus, the verse urges individuals to prioritize and cherish their ethical conduct, suggesting that it is even more crucial than life itself. This moral teaching is an essential part of Thiru Kural's wisdom, which consistently highlights the significance of righteousness and virtue in one's life. This verse also reflects the ancient Tamil culture's emphasis on moral integrity and ethical behavior. It suggests that societal stature and respect are not merely determined by wealth or power, but primarily by one's moral and ethical conduct. This timeless wisdom remains relevant, serving as a guiding principle for ethical living in contemporary times.