அடுத்தவன் குறையை அவன் இல்லாத போது எவன் கூறுகிறானோ, அவனது குறை அவன் இல்லாதபோது இன்னொருவனால் கூறப்படும்.

பிறர்மீது ஒருவன் புறங்கூறித் திரிகிறான் என்றால் அவனது பழிச் செயல்களை ஆராய்ந்து அவற்றில் கொடுமையானவைகளை அவன் மீது கூற நேரிடும்

மற்றவனைப் பற்றிப் புறங்கூறுகின்றவன், அவனுடைய பழிகள் பலவற்றிலும் நோகத்தக்கவை ஆராய்ந்து கூறிப் பிறரால் பழிக்கப்படுவான்.

The character of the faults of that man who publishes abroad the faults of others will be sought out and published

Kural 186 talks about the principle of reciprocity when it comes to highlighting others' faults. The verse suggests that if one person openly speaks about another person's faults, then his own faults will also be sought out and disclosed by others. This is a simple yet profound lesson on the universal law of karma or cause and effect, and the importance of treating others with respect and kindness. In a broader context, the verse also implies the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement. Instead of focusing on others' faults, one should strive to rectify and improve oneself. By doing so, one would not only develop a better character but would also cease to provoke others into scrutinizing and broadcasting their faults. The verse also cautions against the tendency to engage in harmful gossip or slander, as such actions often backfire, leading to one's own faults being exposed. In essence, the Kural encourages self-awareness, self-improvement, and respect for others, while discouraging harmful gossip and judgment of others.