அடுத்தவர் பொருளை அவருக்குத் தெரியாமல் திருடுவோம் என்று மனத்தால் நினைப்பதும் தீமையானது.

பிறருக்குரிய பொருளைச் சூழ்ச்சியினால் கவர்ந்து கொள்ளலாமா என்று ஒருவன் நினைப்பதேகூடக் குற்றமாகும்

குற்றமானதை உள்ளத்தால் எண்ணுவதும் குற்றமே, அதானால் பிறன் பொருளை அவன் அறியாதப் வகையால் வஞ்சித்துக்கொள்வோம் என்று எண்ணாதிருக்க வேண்டும்.

Even the thought (of sin) is sin; think not then of crafiily stealing the property of another

This verse from Thiru Kural emphasizes the importance of the purity of thoughts. It asserts that even considering committing a sin is equivalent to committing the sin itself. Specifically, it warns against the thought of deceitfully taking someone else's property. It suggests that even the contemplation of stealing, or acquiring someone else's belongings through dishonest means, is as wrong as the act itself. This verse underscores the moral principle that our thoughts shape our actions, and therefore, it is crucial to maintain integrity not just in our actions but also in our thoughts. The verse promotes the virtues of honesty, respect for others' property, and the importance of self-control over one's desires. It encourages individuals to refrain from nurturing harmful thoughts, as they could potentially lead to harmful actions. From a broader perspective, this verse highlights the profound understanding of human psychology in ancient Tamil philosophy. It acknowledges the power of thoughts in shaping behavior and emphasizes the need for mental discipline and ethical thinking.