Ozhukam vizhuppam tharalaann ozhukam Uyiriinum oomba padum.

Since conduct gives greatness (vizhuppu), conduct must be guarded even more than life.

ஒழுக்கம் உயர்வு தருவதால் ஒழுக்கத்தை உயிரையும் விட அதிகமாக காக்க வேண்டும்.

Conduct (ozhukam) gives vizhuppu — excellence, elevation, greatness of character. Since this elevation is worth more than physical life itself, conduct must be protected even more carefully than we protect our bodies. Character outlives the body; conduct determines what that character IS.