Tirukural/Chapter 46

451 The great of soul will mean association fear; The mean of soul regard mean men as kinsmen dear.

(True) greatness fears the society of the base; it is only the low - minded who will regard them as friends.

452 The waters' virtues change with soil through which they flow; As man's companionship so will his wisdom show.

As water changes (its nature), from the nature of the soil (in which it flows), so will the character of men resemble that of their associates.

453 Perceptions manifold in men are of the mind alone; The value of the man by his companionship is known. The power of knowing is from the mind; (but) his character is from that of his associates.

454 Man's wisdom seems the offspring of his mind; 'Tis outcome of companionship we find.

Wisdom appears to rest in the mind, but it really exists to a man in his companions.

455 Both purity of mind, and purity of action clear, Leaning no staff of pure companionship, to man draw near. Chaste company is the staff on which come, these two things, viz, purity of mind and purity of conduct.

456 From true pure-minded men a virtuous race proceeds; To men of pure companionship belong no evil deeds.

To the pure-minded there will be a good posterity. By those whose associates are pure, no deeds will be done that are not good.

457 Goodness of mind to lives of men increaseth gain; And good companionship doth all of praise obtain.

Goodness of mind will give wealth, and good society will bring with it all praise, to men.

458 To perfect men, though minds right good belong, Yet good companionship is confirmation strong.

Although they may have great (natural) goodness of mind, yet good society will tend to strengthen it.

459 Although to mental goodness joys of other life belong, Yet good companionship is confirmation strong. Future bliss is (the result) of goodness of mind; and even this acquires strength from the society of the good.

460 Than good companionship no surer help we know; Than bad companionship nought causes direr woe. There is no greater help than the company of the good; there is no greater source of sorrow than the company of the wicked.