உடல் உறுப்பு, செயலற்று இருப்பது குறை ஆகாது. அறிய வேண்டியவதை அறிந்து முயற்சி செய்யாது இருப்பதே குறை.

விதிப்பயனால் பழி ஏற்படும் என்பது தவறு, அறிய வேண்டியவற்றை அறிந்து செயல்படாமல் இருப்பதே பெரும்பழியாகும்

நன்மை விளைவிக்கும் ஊழ் இல்லாதிருத்தல் யார்க்கும் பழி அன்று, அறிய வேண்டியவற்றை அறிந்து முயற்சி செய்யாதிருத்தலே பழி.

Adverse fate is no disgrace to any one; to be without exertion and without knowing what should be known, is disgrace

Kural 618 emphasizes the importance of knowledge and effort. It argues that an unfortunate fate or adverse circumstances are not a disgrace to anyone but rather an aspect of life that can affect anyone. The uncontrollable factors in life should not be a cause for shame or embarrassment. However, the Kural suggests that not making an effort to improve one's situation and not seeking knowledge is indeed a disgrace. This implies a lack of initiative, a lack of drive, and a disregard for personal growth, which are considered far more detrimental than any unfortunate circumstance one might face. In essence, Thiruvalluvar underscores the importance of self-improvement, initiative, and the pursuit of knowledge. He suggests that these are the things that are truly in our control, unlike fate, and that we should focus on these aspects to live a dignified life. The Kural encourages us to take control of our lives, to seek knowledge diligently, and to make an effort in all our endeavors, as these are the true markers of a person's character and worth, and not the circumstances that they might find themselves in due to fate. Therefore, the real disgrace, according to Thiruvalluvar, is not in facing adversity, but in failing to learn, grow, and act in the face of such adversity.