நல்ல குடியில் பிறந்து தன்மீது சொல்லப்படும் பழிக்கு அஞ்சு பவனின் நட்பை விலை கொடுத்தாவது கொள்ள வேண்டும்.

பழிவந்து சேரக் கூடாது என்ற அச்ச உணர்வுடன் நடக்கும் பண்பார்ந்த குடியில் பிறந்தவருடைய நட்பை எந்த வகையிலாவது பெற்றிருப்பது பெரும் சிறப்புக்குரியதாகும்

உயர்ந்த குடியில் பிறந்து, தன்னிடத்தில் வருகின்றப் பழிக்கு நாணுகின்றவனைப் பொருள் கொடுத்தாவது நட்பு கொள்ளவேண்டும்.

The friendship of one who belongs to a (good) family and is afraid of (being charged with) guilt, is worth even purchasing

This verse from Thirukkural emphasizes the value of friendship with those who come from good families and have a deep-seated fear of committing wrongdoings or accumulating guilt. The verse suggests that such friendships are so precious that they are worth acquiring even if one has to pay for them. This is because individuals who are born into good families and have a strong sense of morality often uphold high ethical standards. They are likely to influence their friends positively, fostering virtuous behaviors and preventing them from straying down the wrong path. This verse does not literally advocate buying friendships but stresses the importance of being in the company of the virtuous. It encourages us to seek out and cherish relationships with those who value moral integrity and come from a background where these values are deeply ingrained. It reminds us that the company we keep can significantly influence our character and actions. Therefore, being in the company of the virtuous is considered an investment worth making. In the broader cultural context, this verse also reflects the traditional Indian emphasis on the concepts of "satsang" or "good company", highlighting the importance of being around people who encourage and exemplify moral and ethical living.