திருக்குறள்

அந்தணர் என்போர் அறவோர்மற் றெவ்வுயிர்க்கும்
செந்தண்மை பூண்டொழுக லான்.

பொருள்: எல்லா உயிர்களிடத்திலும் செம்மையான அருளை மேற்கொண்டு ஒழுகுவதால் அறவோரே அந்தணர் எனப்படுவோர் ஆவர்.

With gentle mercy towards all,
The sage fulfils the vitue's call.   

English Meaning: The truly virtuous are rightly called "Anthanar" (noble or pure ones) because they embody kindness in all their actions toward every living being. This means that people who are genuinely virtuous show compassion and kindness to everyone they encounter. Their goodness is evident in their gentle and considerate behavior, making them deserving of the honorable title "Anthanar." This title reflects their commitment to treating all creatures with respect and care, defining them as examples of true virtue.