Thirukkural-On Virtue-Truthfulness-Kural-295

If one is truthful in thought and word, It is better than doing penance and charity.

Truthfulness in thought and word is superior to penance and charity.

In this Kural Valluvar links up truthfulness in thought and word.

Bhagavad Gita (17, 15) refers to 'speech which causes no vexation and is true as really austere speech, which would lead ultimately to perfection.

Thirikadukam 78 has a relevant passage as below:

"Vaaimaiyudaimai vanapaagum-theemai
manathilum vaayilum sollaamai moonrum
thavathil tharukkinaar koal"

(Thirikadukam 78)

In the Bible it is recorded that God abominates,

'A heart that devises wicked plans

a false witness who breathes out lies.'

(Proverbs 6:18-19)