பிறர் சந்தேகப்படாத வேடத்‌தோடு சென்று, சந்தேகப்பட்டுச் சினந்தால் அஞ்சாது நின்று, சாமதானபேத தண்டம் என எந்த உபாயம் செய்தாலும் ரகசியத்தைச் சொல்லாத வல்லமை பெற்றவரே ஒற்றர்.

சந்தேகப்பட முடியாத தோற்றத்துடனும் அப்படிச் சந்தேகப்பட்டுப் பார்ப்பவர்களுக்கு அஞ்சாமலும், என்ன நேர்ந்தாலும் மனத்தில் உள்ளதை வெளிப்படுத்தாமலும் உள்ளவர்களே ஒற்றர்களாகப் பணியாற்ற முடியும்

ஐயுற முடியாத உருவத்தோடு, பார்த்தவருடைய கண் பார்வைக்கு அஞ்சாமல் எவ்விடத்திலும் மனதிலுள்ளதை வெளிப்படுத்தாமல் இருக்க வல்லவனே ஒற்றன் ஆவன்.

A spy is one who is able to assume an appearance which may create no suspicion (in the minds of others), who fears no man's face, and who never reveals (his purpose)

This verse from the Thirukkural talks about the qualities of a spy or a scout. In the context of ancient times, a spy was an essential part of a kingdom's defense and strategy. Their role was to infiltrate the enemy ranks, gather crucial information, and relay it back to their own kingdom without getting caught. In this verse, the poet Valluvar describes the ideal characteristics of a spy. Firstly, a spy should be able to blend in with his surroundings, taking on an identity that arouses no suspicion. This could mean adopting the customs, language, and behavior of the people among whom he is spying to avoid detection. Secondly, a spy must be fearless. He should not be intimidated by anyone, regardless of their rank or power. This is crucial as his job often requires him to be in the presence of powerful individuals in the enemy ranks. Lastly, and most importantly, a spy must be secretive. No matter what situations he faces or what pressures he is under, he should never reveal his true purpose. This is paramount as the success of his mission and often his own life depends on his ability to keep his true identity and purpose hidden. Hence, this verse emphasizes the importance of adaptability, courage, and secrecy for a spy to be successful in his mission. These qualities, while described in the context of a spy, can also be applied to various aspects of life where tact, bravery, and discretion are required.