தன் கட்சிக்காரராய் அருகிலேயே இருந்தும், நாட்டு நலனை எண்ணாமல் தன்னலமே எண்ணும் அமைச்சர், எழுபது கோடி எதிர்கட்சிக்காரருக்குச் சமம் ஆவார்.

தவறான வழிமுறைகளையே சிந்தித்துச் செயல்படுகிற அமைச்சர் ஒருவர் அருகிலிருப்பதை விட எழுபது கோடி எதிரிகள் பக்கத்தில் இருப்பது எவ்வளவோ மேலாகும்

தவறான வழிகளை எண்ணி கூறுகின்ற அமைச்சனை விட எழுபது கோடி பகைவர் பக்கத்தில் இருந்தாலும் நன்மையாகும்.

Far better are seventy crores of enemies (for a king) than a minister at his side who intends (his) ruin

The Kural 639 emphasizes the indispensability of an honest and loyal minister for the success of a ruler or a king. The verse, in simple English, suggests that it is far better for a king to have seventy crores of enemies than to have a dishonest minister by his side. In essence, a deceitful minister who is only focused on his own gain rather than the welfare of the kingdom can cause more harm than millions of enemies. The minister is a key figure in the administration of a kingdom. He is supposed to provide valuable advice, help in decision-making, and contribute significantly to maintaining the welfare of the kingdom. However, if such a person harbors ill-intentions and plans the downfall of the king or the state, the damage he can inflict is enormous. He has the power to destabilize the kingdom from within, which is far more dangerous than an external threat. In the broader perspective, this verse also advocates for honesty, loyalty, and the importance of righteous conduct in positions of power and influence. It warns of the grave danger that can be posed by deceit and personal greed, especially when it comes from someone close and trusted.