இடித்துக் கூறும் தகுதி மிக்க பெரியோரின் சொற்கள் தனக்கு ஏற்பன அல்ல என்றாலும் வருவது எண்ணிப் பொறுத்துக் கொள்ளும் பண்புள்ள அரசின் குடைக் கீழ், இந்த உலகமே தங்கும்.

காதைக் குடையக்கூடிய கடுஞ்சொற்களையும் பொறுத்துக் கொள்கிற பண்பாளரின் அரசுக்குத்தான் மக்களிடம் மதிப்பு இருக்கும்

குறைகூறுவோறின் சொற்களைக் செவிகைக்கும் நிலையிலும் பொறுக்கின்ற பண்பும் உடைய அரசனது குடைநிழலில் உலகம் தங்கும்.

The whole world will dwell under the umbrella of the king, who can bear words that embitter the ear

Kural 389 emphasizes the importance of patience and resilience for a leader or king. The verse states that the world will willingly take shelter under the rule of a king who possesses the capacity to tolerate harsh or bitter words that might be unpleasant to his ears. In this context, 'words that embitter the ear' could refer to criticism, disagreement, or difficult truths. The ability to tolerate these without reacting impulsively or negatively is a hallmark of a great leader. Such a leader does not shun dissenting voices but listens to them, absorbing any truth or wisdom they may contain. This quality of forbearance speaks volumes about the leader's character, earning respect and loyalty from his subjects. The metaphor of the 'world dwelling under the umbrella of the king' signifies the widespread acceptance and support the king will receive from his people, neighboring kingdoms, and perhaps even from his adversaries. This is because the king's patience and resilience demonstrate his capacity to maintain a balanced perspective and make judicious decisions even under stress or provocation. Therefore, this verse teaches us that tolerance and patience are not signs of weakness but strength, especially in positions of leadership. It also underscores the importance of open-mindedness and the ability to handle criticism constructively.