நல்லதுதான் என்று எவரேனும் சொன்னாலும் பிறரிடம் ஒன்றைப் பெறுவது தீமை; ஏதும் இல்லாதவர்க்குக் கொடுப்பதால் விண்ணுலகம் கிடைக்காது என்றாலும் கொடுப்பதே நல்லது.

பிறரிடமிருந்து நல்வழியில் பொருளைப் பெற்றாலும் அது பெருமையல்ல; சிறுமையே ஆகும் கொடை வழங்குவதால் மேலுலகம் என்று சொல்லப்படுவது கிட்டிவிடப் போவதில்லை; எனினும் பிறர்க்குக் கொடுத்து வாழ்வதே சிறந்த வாழ்க்கையாகும்

பிறரிடம் பொருள் பெற்றுக் கொள்ளுதல் நல்ல நெறி என்றாலும் கொள்ளல் தீமையானது, மேலுலகம் இல்லை என்றாலும் பிறக்குக் கொடுப்பதே சிறந்தது.

To beg is evil, even though it were said that it is a good path (to heaven) To give is good, even though it were said that those who do so cannot obtain heaven

Kural 222 beautifully encapsulates the concept of selflessness and the virtue of giving. It essentially says that begging, even if it is said to be a virtuous path leading to heaven, is still considered a lowly act. The act of begging is seen as a degradation of one's dignity and self-respect. It emphasizes the idea that relying on oneself for survival is of greater nobility than depending on others' charity. On the other hand, the verse extols the act of giving, even if it is said that such an act might not lead to heaven. According to this verse, the act of giving, of being charitable, and helping those in need is the highest virtue, regardless of whether or not it leads to an afterlife reward. This is indicative of the selfless nature of giving, where the act is done out of genuine concern and compassion for others, and not for any personal gain or benefit. In a broader sense, this verse teaches us the importance of self-reliance and compassion. It encourages us to be self-sufficient and to uphold our dignity, while also emphasizing the need to be generous and kind to others. It highlights that the act of giving is a virtue in itself, irrespective of any potential rewards or punishments in the afterlife. The verse promotes the concept of altruism and selflessness, which are fundamental values in many cultures and religions. Thus, Thirukkural 222 encourages us to seek self-reliance, dignity, and compassion in our lives, promoting a selfless and giving society.