உரிய காலத்தே மழை பெய்யாது பொய்க்குமானால், கடல் சூழ்ந்த இப்பேருலகத்தில் வாழும் உயிர்களைப் பசி வருத்தும்

கடல்நீர் சூழ்ந்த உலகமாயினும், மழைநீர் பொய்த்து விட்டால் பசியின் கொடுமை வாட்டி வதைக்கும்

மழை பெய்யாமல் பொய்படுமானால், கடல் சூழ்ந்த அகன்ற உலகமாக இருந்தும் பசி உள்ளே நிலைத்து நின்று உயிர்களை வருத்தும்

If the cloud, withholding rain, deceive (our hopes) hunger will long distress the sea-girt spacious world

The verse 13 of Thiru Kural talks about the importance of rain for the survival and prosperity of life in the world. It metaphorically uses the image of a cloud withholding rain and causing widespread hunger to emphasize the crucial role that nature and its resources play in our lives. The cloud in this Kural is a symbol for rain, which is a fundamental natural resource that nourishes all forms of life. When it withholds its bounty, it causes a ripple effect of distress and suffering. The 'sea-girt spacious world' represents our globe, surrounded by the vast ocean. Despite being covered largely by water, without rain, the world would be gripped by hunger. This is because rain is not just about water. It is the primary source of freshwater which is needed for agriculture that provides us food. Without rain, crops fail, leading to famine and widespread hunger. This Kural is a subtle reminder of our dependence on the natural world and its resources. It underscores the importance of conserving and responsibly using these resources. It also alludes to the fact that despite the vastness and plenitude of the world, life can be fragile and susceptible to the whims of nature. In a broader sense, the verse also symbolizes the idea that despite apparent abundance, without the right conditions or resources, suffering and hardship can still occur. It is a call for understanding and respecting the natural balance and harmony of our world.