பிறர் செய்யும்தீமைகளைப் பொறுத்துக் கொள்வதும், அவர்க்குத் தீமை செய்யாது இருப்பதும் ஆகிய தவத்தைச் செய்பவர் சிலர்; செய்யாதவர் பலர்; ஏதுமற்ற ஏழைகள் பலராக இருப்பதற்கு இதுவே காரணம்.

ஆற்றலற்றவர்கள் பலராக இருப்பதற்குக் காரணம், மன உறுதி கொண்டவர் சிலராக இருப்பதும், உறுதியற்றவர் பலராக இருப்பதும் தான்

ஆற்றல் இல்லாதவர் பலராக உலகில் இருப்பதற்குக் காரணம் தவம் செய்கின்றவர் சிலராகவும், செய்யாதவர் பலராகவும் இருப்பதே ஆகும்.

Because there are few who practise austerity and many who do not, there are many destitute and few rich in this world

This verse from Thiru Kural speaks about the importance of self-discipline and austerity in one's life. It states that the reason why there are many impoverished people and few wealthy people in the world is because there are many who do not practice self-discipline and few who do. The verse underscores the virtue of austerity, which here refers to self-control, discipline, and the ability to withstand hardship. It suggests that those who practice austerity, or self-discipline, are often the ones who attain wealth and prosperity, while those lacking in these qualities often find themselves in want. This is not just a statement about economic status, but also about the richness of one's life in terms of wisdom, contentment, and inner peace. The verse implies that the path to true wealth is not through the accumulation of material possessions, but through the cultivation of self-discipline and inner strength. The verse also highlights a social paradox that while the practice of austerity is beneficial, it is not widely practiced. This is a reflection on human nature's tendency towards taking the path of least resistance, often choosing immediate gratification over long-term benefit. In essence, this verse is a call to cultivate and practice self-discipline, as it leads to true wealth and prosperity in life, both materially and spiritually.