கல்வியே அழிவு இல்லாத சிறந்த செல்வம்; பிற எல்லாம் செல்வமே அல்ல.

கல்வி ஒன்றே அழிவற்ற செல்வமாகும் அதற்கொப்பான சிறந்த செல்வம் வேறு எதுவும் இல்லை

ஒருவனுக்கு அழிவு இல்லாத சிறந்த செல்வம் கல்வியே ஆகும், கல்வியைத் தவிர மற்றப் பொருள்கள் (அத்தகைய சிறப்புடைய) செல்வம் அல்ல.

Learning is the true imperishable riches; all other things are not riches

This verse asserts the importance and value of education or learning over any other forms of wealth. The poet Thiruvalluvar emphasizes that only learning or knowledge is the true, imperishable wealth that a person can acquire. This is because all other forms of wealth, such as money, property, or material possessions, are transient and can be lost, stolen, or diminished over time. They are subject to decay, destruction, or loss. However, knowledge or learning, once gained, cannot be taken away. It not only enriches the person who possesses it but also enables him/her to enrich others. It is a source of continual growth and development, and it is a wealth that increases by sharing. This wealth of knowledge also has the power to generate other forms of wealth and provide a person with a dignified and respected position in society. Therefore, Thiruvalluvar strongly suggests that one should strive for the acquisition of knowledge, as it is the only true and everlasting wealth. This is a universal truth applicable to all cultures and societies, and it underscores the timeless wisdom of Thiruvalluvar's Thirukkural.