காதல் மகிழ்ச்சி கடல்போலப் பெரிது; ஆனால் பிரிவினால் அது துன்பம் செய்யத் தொடங்கிவிட்டால் அத்துன்பம் கடலைக் காட்டிலும் பெரிது.

காதல் இன்பம் கடல் போன்றது காதலர் பிரிவு ஏற்படுத்தும் துன்பமோ, கடலைவிடப் பெரியது

காமம் மகிழ்விக்கும்போது அதன் இன்பம் கடல் போன்றது; அது வருத்தும்போது அதன் துன்பமோ கடலைவிடப் பெரியது.

The pleasure of lust is (as great as) the sea; but the pain of lust is far greater

Kural 1166 is a profound observation on the dual nature of desire or lust. It compares the pleasure derived from fulfilling one's desires to the vastness of the sea, indicating that the joy can feel boundless and overwhelming. However, it also warns that the pain that comes from unfulfilled desires or separation from the object of one's desire is even greater than the pleasure, exceeding the enormity of the sea. This verse is a cautionary note about the potential perils of unchecked passion. It reminds us that while the gratification derived from desire can be immense, the agony it can cause is even more profound, suggesting that one should be mindful of their desires and the potential consequences. The verse also emphasizes the transient and unpredictable nature of desire. Just as the sea can be calm one moment and stormy the next, the pleasure derived from desire can quickly turn into pain. The verse, thus, encourages a balanced approach to desire, warning against becoming too attached or dependent on the pleasure it brings. In a broader moral context, this verse can be interpreted as a commentary on the human tendency to seek immediate pleasure without considering the potential long-term pain. It underscores the importance of restraint and wisdom in managing our desires, suggesting that a balanced and thoughtful approach can help avoid future suffering.