தன் அருகே இருக்கும் பொருளின் நிறத்தைக் காட்டும் பளிங்கினைப்போல் ஒருவனது மனத்தே நிகழ்வதை அவன் முகம் காட்டும்.

கண்ணாடி, தனக்கு உள்ளத்தைக் காட்டுவதுபோல ஒருவரது மனத்தில் உள்ளத்தில் அவரது முகம் காட்டி விடும்

தன்னை அடுத்தப் பொருளைத் தன்னிடம் காட்டும் பளிங்கு போல், ஒருவனுடைய நெஞ்சில் மிகுந்துள்ளதை அவனுடைய முகம் காட்டும்.

As the mirror reflects what is near so does the face show what is uppermost in the mind

This verse from Thirukkural portrays the deep connection between a person's mental state and their physical expression. It uses the analogy of a mirror to explain this connection. Just as a mirror reflects the object that is placed before it without any distortion or discrepancy, the human face too reflects the emotions and thoughts that are prevailing in the mind. The verse emphasizes the fact that one's feelings and thoughts cannot be concealed for long, no matter how hard one tries to hide them. The face acts as a mirror to the mind and gives away the innermost feelings and thoughts. This is a fundamental truth about human nature and human expressions which is universally applicable irrespective of cultural, geographical, or temporal differences. From a moral perspective, this verse encourages honesty, transparency, and authenticity. It reminds us that pretense and deception can never be sustained for long as the truth has a way of revealing itself through our expressions. Hence, it urges us to be true to ourselves and to others. Moreover, this verse also highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy in human interactions. By observing the facial expressions of others, one can understand their mental state and respond accordingly, fostering better communication and stronger relationships. This also underlines the importance of being aware of our own expressions, as they can impact how others perceive us and interact with us.