Kural 451
Men of greatness dread base company,
while the low-minded consider them kinsmen.
Kural 452
As water changes according to the soil through which it flows,
so a man assimilates the character of his associates.
Kural 453
By knowing his thoughts, a man’s mind is discovered.
By knowing his associates, his character is revealed.
Kural 454
Wisdom, appearing to originate in a man’s mind,
has its source in his companions.
Kural 455
Purity of mind and purity of conduct–these two
depend upon the purity of a man’s companions.
Kural 456
Praiseworthy progeny come to pure-minded men
whose pure companions keep impure deeds away.
Kural 457
Wealth will be bestowed on good-minded men,
and all renown will be granted by good company.
Kural 458
Even perfect men, possessing the mind’s full goodness,
are fortified by pious fellowship.
Kural 459
Goodness of mind leads to bliss in the next world,
and even that is secured by the company of good men.
Kural 460
There exists no greater aid than virtuous fellowship,
and no greater affliction than evil fraternity.
