ஒருவனது குணம், குடும்பப் பிறப்பு, குற்றம், குறையாத சுற்றம் ஆகியவற்றை அறிந்து நட்புக் கொள்க.

குணமென்ன? குடிப்பிறப்பு எத்தகையது? குற்றங்கள் யாவை? குறையாத இயல்புகள் எவை? என்று அனைத்தையும் அறிந்தே ஒருவருடன் நட்புக் கொள்ள வேண்டும்

ஒருவனுடைய குணத்தையும், குடிப்பிறப்பையும் குற்றத்தையும் குறையாத இனத்தாரின் இயல்பையும் அறிந்து அவனேடு நட்புக் கொள்ள வேண்டும்.

Make friendship (with one) after ascertaining (his) character, birth, defects and the whole of one's relations

This verse from the Thiru Kural emphasizes the importance of careful discernment in choosing one's friends. It advises thorough understanding of a person's character, lineage, faults, and associations before establishing a friendship. "Character" refers to a person's moral and ethical qualities. It's crucial to understand if a person's character aligns with ours, as this lays the foundation for mutual respect and understanding in a friendship. "Birth" or "lineage" in this context does not suggest discrimination based on caste or social status. Instead, it means understanding the values and principles ingrained in a person through their familial and cultural upbringing. This can greatly influence a person's behavior and thought processes. "Defects" refers to a person's shortcomings or faults. No one is perfect, and everyone has their own flaws. Recognizing these in a potential friend is important to prevent any surprises or disappointments in the future. Finally, "the whole of one's relations" refers to understanding a person's circle of influence - their friends, family, and associations. This provides insight into the kind of company a person keeps and the influences that shape their behavior and attitudes. Thus, this Kural emphasizes the importance of careful and thorough understanding of a person before forming a close friendship with them. This thoughtful approach to friendship ensures a strong and durable bond based on mutual respect, understanding, and shared values.