Death/Mortality

This proverb is used to describe the absolute extremes of a situation. It suggests that once a person has faced the ultimate penalty or the lowest form of deprivation, there is nothing more to fear or lose. It signifies reaching the limit of hardship or consequences.

This expression reflects a philosophical view on the cycle of life and death. It is used to remind others that death is an inevitable outcome of birth and that one should not be overly attached to worldly life or fear the end, as it is a natural law of existence.

This expression is used when a significant problem is resolved, even if the solution involves a loss or a drastic measure. It implies a sense of relief from a persistent nuisance, suggesting that the end of the trouble is worth the price paid, often used in a cynical or cold-hearted context regarding the removal of a burden.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone tries to fix a problem or seek redemption at the very last moment, often when it is too late for the effort to be meaningful or effective. It highlights the futility of eleventh-hour realisations or actions after a lifetime of neglect.

This proverb reflects on the ultimate simplicity and transience of life. It emphasizes that despite one's wealth, achievements, or surplus, the basic necessity remains food, and the final destination for everyone is death. It is used to counsel humility and to remind people not to be overly greedy or proud of their possessions.

This proverb highlights how quickly time passes and how soon people are forgotten after death. It is used to express the transient nature of life or to mock someone who overestimates their importance, suggesting that life goes on regardless of an individual's presence.

This expression means that death is inevitable and does not discriminate based on age. It is used to convey that both the young and the old are subject to mortality, often said when a young person passes away unexpectedly.

This expression highlights that people often fail to appreciate the value, hard work, and sacrifices of a father while he is alive. His importance is truly felt only after he is no longer there to provide support and protection. It is used to advise people to respect and care for their parents while they are still living.

This expression is used to describe a person who lives a life of misery, humiliation, or constant struggle (like a stray dog) and meets a lonely, dishonorable, or miserable end (like a fox). It signifies a life and death devoid of dignity or respect.

This proverb is used to describe a person who has lost their self-respect, reputation, or dignity. It implies that for someone living without honor, it makes no difference where they are or how they are treated, as they are effectively dead to society while still physically alive.

This proverb highlights the depth of emotional loss. It suggests that while the sorrow of losing a partner (arti) might fade or heal with time, the pain of losing one's own child (kadupu) is an eternal wound that never truly heals. It is used to describe the incomparable bond between a parent and child.

* Can ch'abbala non morde.

This expression is used to convey that once something is lost, broken, or passed, it cannot be restored to its original state. It is often used in contexts regarding lost time, broken relationships, or death, emphasizing that some things in life are irreversible.

This expression is used to express grief or irony when a virtuous person passes away or faces misfortune while those with bad character continue to thrive. It reflects the philosophical observation that death often claims the righteous unexpectedly or unfairly.

This expression is used to describe a situation where trust is shattered or deep emotional hurt is caused. Just as a crushed object cannot be restored to its original state, once a person's heart or spirit is broken by betrayal or severe disappointment, the relationship or their mental peace can never truly be the same again.

This proverb emphasizes that a person's true character, reputation, and the impact of their life's work are only fully realized and judged by society after they pass away. It is often used to suggest that one's legacy is defined by how they are remembered by others when they are gone.

This expression is used to describe an irreversible situation or a total loss. Just as a body taken to the pyre will inevitably be burnt and cannot return, it signifies that once something is gone or a certain point of no return is reached, there is no hope of recovery or reversal.

This expression signifies that while a person may physically pass away, their virtuous deeds, character, and legacy live on forever in the hearts of others. It is used to emphasize the immortality of a good reputation.

This proverb highlights two extremes where a person loses their rational thinking or common sense: when facing imminent death (due to fear and panic) and when overwhelmed by lust or infatuation. It is used to describe situations where a person acts irrationally under the influence of extreme fear or intense desire.

This proverb highlights the physical and social hardships of old age. It suggests that while many things in life can be unpleasant, the infirmity, dependency, and loss of dignity often associated with extreme old age are the most difficult to endure.

This is a humorous proverb used to describe people who blindly follow others even in illogical situations, or those who display a 'sour grapes' attitude. In the story behind the proverb, a poor man thinks dying is a luxury or a requirement that even the rich aren't fulfilling, so he refuses to 'participate' in it. It highlights foolish competitiveness or a lack of understanding of natural laws.

Said by a man when unwillingly refusing to eat something because Velamas did the same. Never be ashamed to eat your meat. He that is ashamed to eat is ashamed to live. ( French. )*