நெருப்பு சுடச்சுடப் பொன்னின் ஒளி பெருகுவது போலத் துன்பம் வருத்த வருத்தத் தவம் செய்பவர்க்கு ஞானம் பெருகும்.

தம்மைத் தாமே வருத்திக் கொண்டு ஒரு குறிக்கோளுக்காக நோன்பு நோற்பவர்களை எந்தத் துன்பங்கள் தாக்கினாலும் அவர்கள் சுடச்சுட ஒளிவிடும் பொன்னைப் போல் புகழ் பெற்றே உயர்வார்கள்

புடமிட்டு சுடச்சுட ஒளிவிடுகின்ற பொன்னைப் போல் தவம் செய்கின்றவரை துன்பம் வருத்த வருத்த மெய்யுணர்வு மிகும்

Just as gold is purified as heated in the fire, will those shine, who have endured the burning of pain (in frequent austerities)

This Kural verse, 267, draws an analogy between the process of refining gold and the personal growth that comes from enduring hardship and pain. Just as gold becomes more radiant and pure when it is heated and purified in fire, human beings shine brighter and become more virtuous when they endure and overcome their sufferings and challenges. In the context of spirituality, this verse emphasizes the importance of austerities, self-discipline, and self-denial. These practices often involve enduring some form of discomfort or pain, whether physical, mental, or emotional. But just as gold is not diminished but rather purified by fire, those who undertake these practices are not weakened but strengthened by their experiences. Their character is refined and their wisdom deepens, much like the purity of gold increases with each refining. In a broader sense, this verse also speaks to the universal human experience of facing and overcoming challenges. It suggests that enduring hardship and pain can lead to personal growth and transformation. By facing our struggles with courage and resilience, we can emerge stronger and wiser, just like gold shining brighter after being refined in the fire. In essence, this verse reminds us that hardships and trials are not necessarily detrimental. Instead, they can serve as catalysts for our personal and spiritual growth, making us shine brighter in the end.