உயர்ந்தோர் புகழ்ந்து சொன்னவற்றை விரும்பிக் கடைப்பிடிக்க வேண்டும். கடைப்பிடிக்க மறந்தவர்க்கு ஏழு பிறப்பிலும் நன்மை இல்லை.

புகழுக்குரிய கடமைகளைப் போற்றிச் செய்திடல் வேண்டும் அப்படிச் செய்யாமல் புறக்கணிக்கப்பவர்களுக்கு வாழ்க்கையில் உயர்வே இல்லை

சான்றோர் புகழ்ந்து சொல்லியச் செயல்களைப் போற்றிச் செய்யவேண்டும், அவ்வாறு செய்யாமல் மறந்து சோர்ந்தவர்க்கு ஏழுப் பிறப்பிலும் நன்மை இல்லை.

Let (a man) observe and do these things which have been praised (by the wise); if he neglects and fails to perform them, for him there will be no (happiness) throughout the seven births

This verse from the Thirukkural emphasizes the importance of upholding virtues that have been extolled by the wise. It encourages individuals to consciously observe and execute actions that are widely praised for their moral and ethical worth. The verse points out that the neglect of these commendable actions can lead to a lack of prosperity, not only in the current life but across the cycle of seven births, a concept prevalent in Hindu philosophy which believes in reincarnation. The number seven is used here symbolically to indicate a long duration or endless cycle. In essence, the verse underscores the principle of Karma, where one's actions in the present directly impact their future, not only within this life but also in the successive lives to come. It advocates for the pursuit of praiseworthy deeds that contribute to personal growth, societal well-being, and spiritual elevation. The wise and learned individuals are often seen as moral compasses in society, and their commendations typically include values like truthfulness, righteousness, kindness, and selflessness. The verse thus promotes the idea of learning from these individuals and incorporating their wisdom into one's own life.