தம்மீது பழி இன்றிப் புகழோடு வாழ்பவரே உயிர‌ோடு வாழ்பவர்; புகழ் இன்றிப் பழியோடு வாழ்பவர் இருந்தும் இல்லாதவரே.

பழி உண்டாகாமல் வாழ்வதே வாழ்க்கை எனப்படும், புகழ் இல்லாதவர் வாழ்வதும் வாழாததும் ஒன்றுதான்

தாம் வாழும் வாழ்க்கையில் பழி உண்டாகாமல் வாழ்கின்றவரே உயிர் வாழ்கின்றவர், புகழ் உண்டாகாமல் வாழ்கின்றவரே உயிர் வாழாதவர்.

Those live who live without disgrace Those who live without fame live not

Kural 240 posits the importance of a life led with honor and fame. It suggests that the essence of life is not just in living, but in living honorably, free from disgrace or dishonor. This can be interpreted as the importance of maintaining one's reputation and dignity. Reputation, in this context, is not about gaining worldly fame or popularity, but about earning the respect of others through virtuous actions and good character. The second part of the verse emphasizes the insignificance of a life lived without fame. Again, "fame" here should not be understood in a superficial sense. It does not refer to the fleeting fame gained through vanity or materialistic pursuits, but the lasting recognition and respect that comes from leading a virtuous life. In essence, this verse highlights the significance of living a life of integrity and virtue, which earns one respect and recognition. It asserts that a life marred by disgrace or devoid of moral recognition is, in effect, a life not lived to its fullest potential. This verse encourages us to strive for a life of virtue, where respect and honor define our existence, rather than a life of shame or anonymity.