புகழ் இல்லாத உடம்பைச் சுமந்த பூமி, தன் வளம் மிக்க விளைச்சலில் குறைவு படும்.

புகழ் எனப்படும் உயிர் இல்லாத வெறும் மனித உடலைச் சுமந்தால், இந்தப்பூமி நல்ல விளைவில்லாத நிலமாகக் கருதப்படும்

புகழ் பெறாமல் வாழ்வைக் கழித்தவருடைய உடம்பைச் சுமந்த நிலம், வசையற்ற வளமான பயனாகிய விளைவு இல்லாமல் குன்றிவிடும்.

The ground which supports a body without fame will diminish in its rich produce

This Thiru Kural verse, Kural 239, conveys the moral importance of fame and reputation in a person's life. The verse metaphorically relates a person's fame to the fertility of the soil. The verse suggests that the earth itself disapproves of bearing the burden of a person who has lived a life without earning any recognition or fame. Just as the fertility of the soil diminishes when it is utilized for non-productive purposes, the worth of the ground that accepts the body of a fameless person will also diminish. In essence, the Kural emphasizes the importance of living a life that gains respect and recognition from others. It encourages individuals to strive for achievements and contributions that make a positive difference in the world, thereby earning fame and admiration. If not, their life is considered as barren and unproductive as infertile soil. This verse reflects the ancient Tamil value system that highly regarded fame and honor achieved through virtues and good deeds. It is also a reminder of the impermanence and vanity of physical existence when compared to the lasting legacy of one's deeds and reputation.