அடுத்தவன் மனைவியை மனத்துள் எண்ணாத பேராண்மை அறம் மட்டும் அன்று; சான்றோர்க்கு நிறைவான ஒழுக்கமும் ஆகும்

வெறொருவன் மனைவியைக் காம எண்ணத்துடன் நோக்காத பெருங்குணம் அறநெறி மட்டுமன்று; அது ஒழுக்கத்தின் சிகரமும் ஆகும்

பிறனுடைய மனைவியை விரும்பி நோக்காத ‌பெரிய ஆண்மை, சான்றோர்க்கு அறம் மட்டும் அன்று; நிறைந்த ஒழுக்கமுமாகும்.

That noble manliness which looks not at the wife of another is the virtue and dignity of the great

This Kural 148, from the Book of Virtue in Thirukkural, emphasizes the importance of self-restraint and respect for others' relationships in the context of marital fidelity. It states that the supreme form of manliness or virtue is not to covet another person's wife. This is not only considered a moral obligation but also stands as the pinnacle of righteous conduct. The verse underscores the significance of restraint in our lives, particularly in matters concerning personal relationships. It highlights that one's nobility and grace are not just reflected in strength or power, but also in the control of one's desires and respect for others' personal boundaries. It also stresses that respect for another man's wife is not just a matter of personal virtue, but it also contributes to social harmony, peace, and respect among individuals. In essence, this kural preaches that the highest form of ethical conduct and manliness lies in respecting the sanctity of another person's marital relationship. This is not just a moral duty, but also a mark of a truly great and dignified individual.