மனம் சென்ற வழியெல்லாம் அதைச் செல்ல விடாமல், தீமையை விட்டு விலக்கி, நல்ல வழியில் நடத்துவது அறிவு.

மனம் போகும் வழியெல்லாம் போக விடாமல் தீய வழிகளைத் தள்ளிவிட்டு, நல்வழியைத் தேர்வு செய்வதே அறிவுடைமையாகும்

மனத்தை சென்ற இடத்தில் செல்லவிடாமல், தீமையானதிலிருந்து நீக்கிக் காத்து நன்மையானதில் செல்லவிடுவதே அறிவாகும்.

Not to permit the mind to go where it lists, to keep it from evil, and to employ it in good, this is wisdom

The verse (Kural 422) from Thiru Kural emphasizes wisdom as the ability to control and guide one's mind in a righteous direction. Thiruvalluvar, the poet, suggests that wisdom is not just about intellectual knowledge but also about the ability to make moral judgements and ethical choices. The verse advises that one should not let the mind wander aimlessly or be drawn towards evil or destructive paths. Instead, it should be consciously directed towards goodness and righteousness. This implies exercising self-control, resisting temptations, and making decisions that are ethically sound and beneficial not just to oneself but also to others. The verse highlights the importance of introspection and self-discipline. It encourages us to be mindful of our thoughts and actions, and to consciously choose paths that lead to personal growth, well-being, and a positive impact on society. Such discernment in choosing 'right' over 'wrong' is presented as the hallmark of true wisdom. In a broader sense, this verse also emphasizes the power and freedom each individual has over their own mind. It asserts that every person has the capability to shape their thoughts and actions, and thus their character and destiny, through conscious decision-making. This understanding of wisdom is deeply empowering as it places the responsibility and potential for self-improvement and societal betterment firmly in the hands of each individual.