பொறாமை உடையவர்க்குத் தீமை தரப் பகைவர் வேண்டியதில்லை; பொறாமையே போதும்

பொறாமைக் குணம் கொண்டவர்களுக்கு அவர்களை வீழ்த்த வேறு பகையே வேண்டா அந்தக் குணமே அவர்களை வீழ்த்தி விடும்

பொறாமை உடை‌யவர்க்கு வேறு பகை வேண்டா. அஃது ஒன்றே போதும், பகைவர் தீங்கு செய்யத் தவறினாலும் தவறாது கேட்டைத் தருவது அது.

To those who cherish envy that is enough Though free from enemies that (envy) will bring destruction

Kural 165 discusses the self-destructive nature of envy. It posits that for those who harbor envy, no external enemy is required for their downfall - the envy alone is sufficient to cause their destruction. This verse underscores the principle that internal vices such as envy, jealousy, and resentment can lead to one's downfall, just as much (or even more so) than external threats or enemies. The destructive power of envy lies in its ability to consume the person from within, leading to negative thoughts and actions, affecting their mental peace, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Thiruvalluvar, through this Kural, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean heart free from envy and ill-will towards others, as these negative emotions can become the architect of our own destruction. It is a call for self-improvement, advocating for personal growth by overcoming such self-destructive emotions. In a broader cultural context, this verse reflects the ancient Tamil value system that places a high premium on virtues like compassion, generosity, and joy in the success of others, and sees vices like envy and resentment as destructive and self-defeating.