குடும்பப் பெருமைக்கான மானம் அழிய நேர்ந்தபோது இறந்து போகாமல் இந்த உடம்பைக் காத்துவாழும் வாழ்க்கை சாவாமைக்கு மருந்து ஆகுமோ?

சாகாமலே இருக்க மருந்து கிடையாது அப்படி இருக்கும்போது உயிரைவிட நிலையான மானத்தைப் போற்றாமல், வாழ்க்கை மேம்பாட்டுக்காக ஒருவர், தமது பெருமையைக் குறைத்துக் கொள்வது இழிவான செயலாகும்

ஒருவனுடைய பெருந்தகைமை தன் சிறப்புக்கெட நேர்ந்த போது, அவன் உடம்பை மட்டும் காத்து வாழும் வாழ்க்கை சாவாமைக்கு மருந்தோ.

For the high-born to keep their body in life when their honour is gone will certainly not prove a remedy against death

Kural 968 explores the concept of honour and dignity, particularly within the context of high-born or noble individuals. It suggests that preserving life at the expense of one's honour is not a suitable remedy against death. In other words, life without honour is not worth living, especially for those of high birth or nobility. The verse underscores the importance of maintaining one's dignity and reputation, even in the face of adversity or danger. It implies that it is better to die with honour than to live without it. This belief is rooted in the traditional values of Tamil society, where honour and dignity are highly valued. The verse also reminds us that true nobility lies not in birth, but in upholding one's principles and honour. Thus, those who compromise their honour for the sake of life are seen as bringing disgrace upon themselves. In a broader perspective, this verse can be a reflection on the value of integrity and moral courage. It emphasises the idea that it is more important to live a life of principle and honour, than to simply exist without these virtues. In essence, Kural 968 is a powerful statement on the importance of honour and dignity, asserting that life without these is not truly life at all. It serves as a reminder that one should not compromise one's principles and dignity, even in the face of death.