அறச்செயல் எது என்றால், பிற உயிர்களைக் கொலை செய்யாது இருப்பதே; கொல்வது அனைத்துப் பாவங்களையும் தரும்.

எந்த உயிரையும் கொல்லாதிருப்பதே அறச்செயலாகும் கொலை செய்தல் தீயவினைகள் அனைத்தையும் விளைவிக்கும்

அறமாகிய செயல் எது என்றால் ஒரு உயிரையும் கொல்லாமையாகும், கொல்லுதல் அறமல்லாத செயல்கள் எல்லாவற்றையும் விளைக்கும்.

Never to destroy life is the sum of all virtuous conduct The destruction of life leads to every evil

This Thiru Kural verse (Kural 321) emphasizes on the profound virtue of non-violence and the detrimental consequences of destructive actions. When asked about the highest form of virtue, the verse suggests that it is the act of refraining from causing harm or death to any living being. This principle is deeply ingrained in the ethos of many philosophies and religions, underlining the sacredness of life and the importance of coexistence. Further, the verse warns about the repercussions of violent actions, particularly taking a life. It asserts that such an act is not just immoral, but also leads to a multitude of negative outcomes. This can be interpreted in a spiritual context where violent actions lead to negative karma, causing suffering in one's current life or future lives. It could also be understood in a social context where violent behavior disrupts harmony and incurs punishment or social ostracization. Therefore, the verse serves as a moral guideline, advocating for non-violence and respect for all forms of life, while cautioning against the destructive act of taking a life. It underscores the universal truth that our actions, good or bad, have consequences, and it is through our conduct that we shape our destiny.