Science of House Building

Divide the width of a foot into two parts;
For all people, five parts are fitting for the appearance.
If it exceeds five and reaches six, it is called Dhruva.
If it reaches eight, it is Koti, and nine is also Koti. (10)
original: "மனையடிசாஸ்திரம்" (Manaiyadi Sastram). This refers to the traditional Vastu science of measurements and proportions for domestic architecture.

In five parts, see two as the inner measurement;
If it exceeds by three cubits, add one more.
Without fail, eight is the standard for the pillars;
If it exceeds by two, it can be classified as another type. (11)
A "cubit" (muzham) is a traditional unit of measurement from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger.

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Male Tree

When observing trees with careful intent,
If it is rounded like a pillar, tall, and grows straight,
Standing majestically upon the wide earth,
The experts of the Vedas have declared it a "Male Tree."
(Meaning) If a tree is rounded like a pillar and grows tall and straight, it is called a Male Tree. (12)

Female Tree

When observing trees with careful consideration,
If the base is thick and the top tapers to be thin,
It can be classified and grandly recited as "Female."
The Tamil scholars and the wise have spoken of its nature.
(Meaning) If a tree has a thick base and a thin tip, it is called a Female Tree. (14)

Neuter Tree

When observing the nature of trees,
If it is thin and long upon the ground,
And then the head (top) becomes very thick as it stands,
The experts of the Vedas have declared it a "Neuter Tree."
original: "அலிமரம்" (Ali maram). In traditional botany/architecture, this refers to trees that do not follow the standard tapering or uniform patterns.
(Meaning) If a tree is thin and long but has a thick top, it is called a Neuter Tree.

If it is considered a Male Tree, it is fit for legs and pillars;
If it is a graceful Female Tree, it is fit for main beams and corbels;
If it is a Neuter Tree, it is fit for cross-beams and rafters;
If used for strong supports, these are the best of timbers.

(Meaning) Male trees are used for legs and pillars; Female trees are used for main beams and corbels; Neuter trees are used for cross-beams, rafters, and supports. These are the excellent ways to use timber. (15)
A "corbel" (pothigai) is a structural piece of stone or wood jutting from a wall to carry a weight, often elaborately carved in Tamil architecture.