உயிர்களைக் கொல்லாத செயல், அறங்களுள் எல்லாம் சிறந்த தனி அறமாம். அதற்கு அடுத்துச் சிறந்த அறம் பொய்யாமை.

அறங்களின் வரிசையில் முதலில் கொல்லாமையும் அதற்கடுத்துப் பொய்யாமையும் இடம் பெறுகின்றன

இணையில்லாத ஓர் அறமாகக் கொல்லாமை நல்லது, அதற்கு அடுத்த நிலையில் கூறத்தக்கதாகப் பொய்யாமை நல்லது.

Not to destroy life is an incomparably (great) good next to it in goodness ranks freedom from falsehood

Thirukkural 323 emphasizes two paramount virtues: non-violence and truthfulness. In the hierarchy of virtues, non-violence or not causing harm to any life form is considered the highest good. This principle aligns with the ancient Indian philosophy of Ahimsa, which advocates non-violence towards all living beings. It urges us to respect all forms of life and to refrain from inflicting any harm, physical or mental. The second virtue highlighted in the verse is truthfulness or abstention from falsehood. This virtue is ranked next to non-violence. Truth is considered a fundamental value in many cultures and religions, as it forms the basis of trust and integrity in human relationships. By placing truthfulness after non-violence, the verse suggests that while truth is important, it should not lead to harm or pain to others. For instance, speaking truth should not be an excuse for causing harm or hurt to others. Overall, the verse advocates for a compassionate and honest approach in life, placing the highest importance on not causing harm to any life form and maintaining truthfulness at all times. It is a call to uphold these values which contribute to peace, harmony, and ethical conduct.