பெருமைப்பட்டுக் கொள்ளக் காரணங்கள் இருந்தும் செருக்கு இல்லாமல் இருப்பது பெருமை; காரணம் இல்லா‌மலேயே பெருமைப்பட்டுக் கொள்வது சிறுமை.

ஆணவமின்றி அடக்கமாக இருப்பது பெருமை எனப்படும் ஆணவத்தின் எல்லைக்கே சென்று விடுவது சிறுமை எனப்படும்

பெருமை பண்பு செருக்கு இல்லாமல் வாழ்தல், சிறுமையோ செருக்கே மிகுந்து அதன் எல்லையில் நின்று விடுவதாகும்.

Freedom from conceit is (the nature of true) greatness; (while) obstinacy therein is (that of) meanness

Kural 979 speaks about the concepts of 'pride' and 'humility', and their roles in defining one's greatness or meanness. The first line of the verse, "Perumai perumidham inmai" translates to "Freedom from conceit is (the nature of true) greatness". This suggests that true greatness lies not in flaunting one's achievements or capabilities, but in modesty and humility. It emphasizes that those who attain greatness should not succumb to the temptation of pride or arrogance. Instead, they should remain humble, acknowledging that their achievements are not solely their own but the result of many factors, including the support of others and the opportunities they've been given. The second line, "Sirumai perumidham oorndhu vidal" translates to "obstinacy therein is (that of) meanness". This line suggests that insisting on one's greatness, especially without any valid reason, is a sign of meanness or pettiness. It criticizes those who are stubborn in their arrogance, unable to accept criticism or advice due to their inflated sense of self-worth. Overall, the verse encourages humility and discourages arrogance, asserting that true greatness is characterized by modesty and openness, while meanness is defined by obstinate pride. It is a reminder that humility not only makes an individual great but also earns them the respect and admiration of others.