கெட்டவன் நல்லவன் போல நடிப்பது, பசு புலியின் தோலைப் போர்த்திக் கொண்டு மேய்ந்தது போலாகும்.

மனத்தை அடக்க முடியாதவர் துறவுக்கோலம் பூணுவது, பசு ஒன்று புலித்தோலைப் போர்த்திக் கொண்டு பயிரை மேய்வது போன்றதாகும்

மனத்தை அடக்கும் வல்லமை இல்லாதவன் மேற்கொண்ட வலிய தவக்கோலம், புலியின் தோலைப் போர்த்திக் கொண்டு பயிரை பசு மேய்ந்தாற் போன்றது.

The assumed appearance of power, by a man who has no power (to restrain his senses and perform austerity), is like a cow feeding on grass covered with a tiger's skin

The Kural 273 speaks about the pretense of power and control that is not authentic. It compares a person who lacks self-restraint and the ability to perform austerity but pretends otherwise, to a cow draped in a tiger's skin. The cow, by wearing a tiger's skin, may give a false impression of power and danger. However, when it starts grazing, its true nature is revealed. Similarly, a person may assume an appearance of power, but without the ability to control their senses and live a disciplined life, their pretense will eventually come to light. The verse emphasizes the importance of authentic power and self-control, as opposed to mere outward appearances. It suggests that true power lies in self-restraint and discipline, not in mere appearances or pretenses. In a broader interpretation, this verse can also be viewed as a critique of hypocrisy and deceit. It underscores that pretending to be what one is not, is not only deceptive but also unsustainable in the long run. The verse calls for authenticity and integrity in one's actions and character.