Kural - 270

The many all things lack! The cause is plain,
The 'penitents' are few The many shun such pain

Explanation
Because there are few who practise austerity and many who do not, there are many destitute and few rich in this world.

Tamil Transliteration
Ilarpala Raakiya Kaaranam Norpaar
Silarpalar Nolaa Thavar.