கொடுக்க இருப்பவரின் நிலைகூட தம்மிடம் வந்து யாசித்து நிற்பவரின் மலர்ந்த முகத்தைக் காணும் வரை கொடியதே.

ஈதல் பண்புடையவர்க்குத் தம்மை நாடி வரும் இரவலரின் புன்னகை பூத்த முகத்தைக் கண்டு இன்புறும் வரையில், அவருக்காக இரக்கப்படுவதும் ஒரு துன்பமாகவே தோன்றும்

பொருள் வேண்டும் என்ற இரந்தவரின் மகிழ்ந்த முகத்தைக் காணும் வரைக்கும் (இரத்தலைப் போலவே ) இரந்து கேட்கப்படுவதும் துன்பமானது.

To see men begging from us in disagreeable, until we see their pleasant countenance

Kural 224 emphasizes the discomfort experienced by generous individuals when they are approached by others for aid. This kural implies that the act of begging is painful and disagreeable to the givers, until they see the receivers' faces light up with gratitude and relief. The first part of the verse, "To see men begging from us is disagreeable", refers to the discomfort felt by a person who is approached for assistance. This discomfort might arise out of a variety of reasons such as a sense of obligation, inconvenience, or the fear of being taken advantage of. The second part of the verse, "until we see their pleasant countenance", reveals the transformative power of gratitude. The act of giving becomes a source of joy when it is received with gratitude, as it manifests the positive impact of their generosity. In essence, Thiruvalluvar, through this verse, underscores the moral responsibility of individuals to aid those in need, despite any initial discomfort, keeping in mind the eventual pleasure derived from the act of giving. The verse also highlights the importance of gratitude in the act of receiving, as it not only eases the giver's discomfort but also adds value to their act of generosity.