உண்மை என்று சொல்லப்படுவது எது என்றால், எவர்க்கும் எத்தகைய தீங்கையும் தராத சொற்களைச் சொல்வதே ஆகும்.

பிறருக்கு எள்முனையளவு தீமையும் ஏற்படாத ஒரு சொல்லைச் சொல்வதுதான் வாய்மை எனப்படும்

வாய்மை என்று கூறப்படுவது எது என்றால், அது மற்றவர்க்கு ஒரு சிறிதும் தீங்கு இல்லாத சொற்களைக் சொல்லுதல் ஆகும்.

Truth is the speaking of such words as are free from the least degree of evil (to others)

Kural 291 deals with the essence of truthfulness or honesty, which is one of the most valued virtues in all cultural and moral contexts. According to this verse, true honesty or truthfulness is not just about speaking the truth, but it's about uttering words that do not bring any harm, even in the slightest degree, to others. In other words, the verse suggests that the virtue of honesty extends beyond just factual accuracy. It highlights the moral obligation to ensure that our words do not cause damage, pain or distress to others. It reminds us to be mindful of the impact of our words and encourages us to speak in a manner that is not only truthful, but also kind, considerate, and respectful. This Kural emphasizes the importance of using speech as a tool for good, avoiding falsehoods, and ensuring that our honesty doesn't serve as a weapon to harm others. It underscores the importance of combining honesty with empathy and compassion in our communication. Therefore, the true embodiment of honesty, according to Thirukkural, is a speech that is not only truthful but also free from causing harm or distress to others. This is a profound reminder that our words have power and we should use them responsibly.