அறத்துடன் வருவதே இன்பம்; பிற வழிகளில் வருவன துன்பமே; புகழும் ஆகா

தூய்மையான நெஞ்சுடன் நடத்தும் அறவழி வாழ்க்கையில் வருகின்ற புகழால் ஏற்படுவதே இன்பமாகும் அதற்கு மாறான வழியில் வருவது புகழும் ஆகாது; இன்பமும் ஆகாது

அறநெறியில் வாழ்வதன் பயனாக வருவதே இன்பமாகும். அறத்தோடு பொருந்தாமல் வருவன எல்லாம் இன்பம் இல்லாதவை: புகழும் இல்லாதவை.

Only that pleasure which flows from domestic virtue is pleasure; all else is not pleasure, and it is without praise

Kural 39 emphasizes the significance of virtue in achieving true happiness and praise in life. It posits that only pleasure derived from ethical and virtuous conduct is authentic and worthy. This verse suggests that any form of happiness or pleasure that is not rooted in virtue lacks authenticity and is devoid of any real worth or commendation. The context here largely revolves around the concept of domestic virtue, which includes the moral and ethical actions taken within the family or household. It underscores that the joy derived from adhering to moral principles in one's personal and domestic life holds true value. The pleasure gained from any other sources or means that are not aligned with virtue is considered hollow and undeserving of praise, as they lack the foundational principles of integrity and morality. The essence of this Kural, therefore, is that the pursuit of virtue should be integral to one's existence, as it is the path to genuine happiness and commendation. Any diversion from this path results in superficial joy and unworthy accolades.