இம்மைக்குப் புகழையும் மறுமைக்கு நன்மையையும் தராத செயல்களை எந்தக் காலத்திலும் விட்டுவிட வேண்டும்.

புகழையும், நன்மையையும் தராத தூய்மையற்ற செயல்களை எந்த நிலையிலும் செய்யாமல் அவற்றை விட்டொழிக்க வேண்டும்

புகழையும் அறத்தையும் தாராத (தூய்மை அற்ற) செயல்களை எக்காலத்திலும் ஒருவன் செய்யாமல் விட்டொழிக்க வேண்டும்.

Ministers should at all times avoid acts which, in addition to fame, yield no benefit (for the future)

Kural 652 emphasizes the importance of actions that not only bring fame, but also yield benefits for the future. It advises ministers, or leaders in general, to always avoid engaging in actions that, despite bringing them temporary fame or recognition, do not yield any lasting benefits or contribute positively to the future. In other words, this verse advocates for long-term thinking and ethical conduct. It suggests that our actions should always be beneficial, not just for the present moment, but also for the future. Furthermore, they should be morally sound and bring us good repute. This Kural, like many others in the Thirukkural, highlights the importance of ethical conduct and foresight in leadership. It serves as a reminder that leaders should not be swayed by the lure of instant fame or recognition, but should instead focus on actions that yield lasting benefits and enhance their reputation in the long run.