అర్జీల వల్ల పనులూ కావు, ఆశీర్వాదాల వల్ల బిడ్డలూ పుట్టరు.

This expression highlights the difference between biological fatherhood and responsible parenting. It suggests that while many men have offspring, very few actually fulfill the emotional, supportive, and protective duties that a true father should provide to his children.

This proverb emphasizes that a life built on immorality (infidelity) and dishonesty (falsehood) will never lead to a peaceful or successful conclusion. It is used to warn that character and integrity are essential for a stable life, and shortcuts through deceit or unethical behavior will eventually lead to ruin.

This proverb highlights that quality and character matter more than mere existence or quantity. Just as every meal served isn't necessarily grand or nourishing, not every offspring fulfills the duties or brings honor to the family. It is used to express disappointment when someone or something fails to live up to the expected standard or moral value.

This expression is used to emphasize that mere talk or empty promises do not produce practical results or satisfy physical needs. It highlights the importance of action over words, often used when someone provides excuses or tall tales instead of providing actual help or food.

We must assist in deeds not in words. (Latin.) Words don't fill the belly. (Portuguese.) * Molto fumo, e poco arrosto. † Re opulentandum non verbis, ‡ Palavras naõ enchem barriga.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so unfortunate or troublesome that they are rejected by everyone, including their own family and even fate. It signifies a state of total abandonment or being an outcast whom nobody wants to take responsibility for.

This proverb describes a person who neglects or mistreats their loyal family members and friends while seeking favors or trying to please strangers and outsiders who do not truly care for them. It is used to criticize someone's poor judgment in prioritizing relationships.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one is surrounded by many friends or relatives who claim to be close, yet none of them step forward to help when there is a genuine need. It highlights the irony of having a large social circle that offers no practical support.

This proverb highlights the changing nature of children as they grow up. It suggests that while children are easy to manage and dependent when they are infants (held in a cloth cradle or 'addalu'), they become independent, headstrong, or even ungrateful once they reach adulthood (represented by 'gaddalu' or beards). It is used to express a parent's frustration when adult children no longer listen or follow their guidance.

This proverb emphasizes that mere requests or passive well-wishes are insufficient for success. It highlights the necessity of practical action and effort (and in certain contexts, bribery or influence in bureaucracy) over formal paperwork or spiritual gestures to achieve tangible results.

This proverb describes traditional societal attributes associated with excellence in genders, suggesting that a woman's grace or beauty and a man's courage or bravery are their defining strengths.