Ozhukam vizhuppam tharalaann ozhukam
Uyiriinum oomba padum.
Since conduct gives greatness, conduct is to be guarded more than life itself.
ஒழுக்கம் உயர்வை தருவதால், ஒழுக்கத்தை உயிரைவிட அதிகமாக போற்றி காக்க வேண்டும்.
The renunciants' greatness lies entirely in their flawless conduct (ozhukam). Conduct gives more than life — it gives greatness, legacy, and spiritual liberation. Valluvar places conduct above even physical life, saying we should protect it more carefully than we protect our own existence.