This proverb means that it is vital to avoid conflicts and disputes during critical times such as the harvest. Disagreements during such essential periods can jeopardize the efforts of everyone involved. More generally, it reminds us of the importance of maintaining harmony and cooperation during times of intense work or shared challenges. An equivalent proverb in English might be ‘Don’t bite the hand that feeds you,’ which also emphasizes the importance of gratitude and cooperation in times of shared effort.