Compassion

This expression describes a situation where two people with different disabilities or weaknesses cooperate to help each other. It signifies mutual aid or synergy where one person's strength compensates for another's weakness, and vice-versa, allowing both to achieve what they couldn't alone.

Refers to a very deep, long, or uninterrupted sleep. In the Ramayana, Urmila (Lakshmana's wife) is said to have slept for fourteen years, taking over her husband's share of sleep so he could remain awake to serve Rama. It is used to describe someone who sleeps for a very long duration or is very difficult to wake up.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely generous and charitable. Just as a hand without a bone would be flexible and unable to close or withhold, it refers to someone who gives freely to others without hesitation or stinginess.

This expression is used to signify a balanced and mature perspective towards relationships or visitors. It implies that while one warmly welcomes newcomers or guests, they also graciously accept and offer good wishes to those who choose to depart, without harborring ill will or desperation.

This proverb emphasizes the virtue of charity and the importance of helping those in need. It suggests that when a beggar or a person in distress seeks help, one should never flatly refuse or turn them away empty-handed if they have the means to give.

* Ledigeld is hongers moeder, en van diefte volle broeder. † Gud giver hver Fugl Sin Fode, men kaster den ei Reden til ham.

This expression is used to signify patience and tolerance. Just as a river might not overflow or cause destruction immediately upon the first few disturbances, a wise or powerful person often overlooks a few mistakes before taking action or reacting. It suggests that one should have a certain level of endurance and give others a chance to rectify their behavior before passing judgment or retaliating.

This expression emphasizes that the intention and sincerity behind an action are more important than the scale or quantity of the deed. It suggests that merit earned through sincere devotion or selfless service is never wasted and holds immense value, regardless of how minor it may appear.

This proverb emphasizes the unique importance of a mother's care and nurturing. It suggests that even the smallest presence of a mother is more valuable for a child's upbringing and emotional security than the presence of a powerful or physically strong father.

This expression refers to the value of food or charity. It implies that feeding a living being—whether productive (like a cow that gives milk) or non-productive (a barren one)—is never a waste and always results in merit or satisfaction. It is often used to encourage generosity without over-calculating the utility of the recipient.

This expression is used to describe something or someone of extraordinary value, uniqueness, or virtue that cannot be measured in monetary terms. It is often used to praise a person's character, a rare talent, or a precious relationship.

This proverb highlights that the results of charity or kind deeds are visible through the prosperity and well-being of future generations (descendants). Conversely, those who are miserly or unkind leave no such legacy behind. It is used to emphasize that one's generosity is often reflected in the success of their children or the enduring impact of their legacy.

This proverb emphasizes that when hosting someone, the warmth, hospitality, and respect shown to the guest are far more important than the quality or quantity of the food served. It is used to highlight that material offerings lose their value if they are not given with a kind heart.

Welcome is the best cheer. In hospitality it is the spirit that is the chief thing. (Greek.)

This expression highlights that the hospitality and love with which food is served are more important than the food itself. Food served by someone who does not like you or without genuine warmth is compared to 'Pindam' (food offered to the deceased), implying it is soul-less or insulting to consume.

This proverb highlights the importance of timely help or minimal sustenance. It implies that even a very small amount of food or a minor timely intervention can save a person from a life-threatening situation or a major calamity.

This proverb emphasizes the virtue of being helpful and hospitable. It suggests that one should proactively assist others in their burdens, whether they are arriving as guests or departing. It serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness and physical help contribute to a person's good character and social harmony.

This expression emphasizes that the words spoken by a loved one are more pleasing and comforting to the heart than the sweetest natural substance. It is used to describe the beauty of affection and the power of kind words in a relationship.

This expression emphasizes that milk-yielding animals, general livestock, and human infants all require the same level of constant care, tenderness, and attention. It is used to remind people that animals are as vulnerable and dependent as babies and should be treated with equal compassion.

This expression highlights the contrast in rewards for different types of work. It implies that while professional or strict work earns a fixed wage (coins), selfless or charitable acts earn immense respect and a legacy (villages). It is often used to describe how being precise and firm has its own small value, but being generous or offering things for free can win people's hearts or have vast social consequences.

This proverb emphasizes the value of generosity and communal sharing. It suggests that sharing even a small amount of what one has with others is more virtuous and fulfilling than eating or enjoying a large amount alone.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of generosity and abundance. It suggests that one should have a large heart (represented by a large plate for eating) and a productive workspace (represented by the threshing floor). It is used to encourage someone to be more liberal, resourceful, or to aim for prosperity and sharing rather than being stingy.