బోడిమాను గాలికి మిండడు

bodimanu galiki mindadu

Translation

A bare tree does not sway in the wind

Meaning

This proverb describes a person who is detached or has nothing left to lose. Just as a tree without leaves or branches offers no resistance to the wind and remains unaffected, a person with no attachments, wealth, or ego cannot be troubled or swayed by external threats or worldly problems.

Related Phrases

Wealth is the paramour of all castes.

This proverb suggests that wealth transcends social hierarchies and caste boundaries. It implies that a person's financial status often carries more weight and influence than their traditional social standing or lineage, effectively stating that 'money is the ultimate power'.

A rich man is sought after by all. Rich people are every where at home. (German.)†

The path walked by ten people is a road, the word spoken by ten people is the truth.

This proverb emphasizes the power of collective opinion and consensus. It suggests that when a large group of people follows a certain path or agrees on a particular statement, it gains legitimacy and becomes the established norm or truth. It is used to highlight that communal agreement carries more weight than individual opinion.

Swallowing barber's razors for the sake of self-respect.

This expression describes a situation where someone endures extreme pain, hardship, or self-destruction just to save face or uphold their pride/dignity. It is used when a person's ego or reputation forces them to accept a harmful situation without complaining.

A stubborn tree doesn't bend for the wind, and a naked man cannot be robbed by thieves.

This proverb is used to describe people who have nothing to lose or are extremely stubborn. Just as a dead, leafless stump (stubborn tree) cannot be swayed by the wind, and a person with no clothes or possessions cannot be looted by thieves, an individual who is already at their lowest or has no attachments is immune to threats or losses.

Making a knot between the shaven head and the knee.

This refers to the way of trying to bring together two disparate things for a harmonious blend. When such an attempt is made, the listener understands the absurdity.

A rough man does not fear the wind.

This expression refers to a person who is toughened by hardship or lack of refinement. It describes someone who is insensitive to subtle changes or social niceties because they are used to a harsh, rugged, or coarse lifestyle.

A master fit for a skulk.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where an extremely stubborn or difficult person finally meets someone who can control, match, or overpower them. It is equivalent to the English expression 'To meet one's match' or 'Diamond cuts diamond.'

An old tree has a firm core. A brave heart in a weak body.

This expression refers to the inherent strength, wisdom, or resilience that comes with age and experience. Just as an old tree has a strong, dense core (heartwood), an elderly or experienced person possesses deep-rooted knowledge and character that youngsters might lack. It is used to praise the sturdiness or capability of someone despite their old age.

Mr. Clout-Ragamuffin is the robbers' master.

This proverb refers to a person who possesses nothing of value and is therefore immune to being robbed. It is used to describe a situation where someone's extreme poverty or lack of assets serves as their greatest security, as there is nothing for others to take from them.

He that has nothing is frightened at nothing. There is no stripping a naked man. (German.)‡ * For meget og for lidt fordsarver alting. † Nicht zu wenig, nicht zu viel. ‡ Eimen Nackten Arzt man nicht ansehen,

A man wearing only a loincloth is a master to thieves.

This expression refers to someone who has nothing to lose. Since a person wearing only a loincloth possesses no wealth or valuables, even the most skilled thieves cannot steal anything from him. It is used to describe a situation where a person is immune to threats or exploitation because they lack worldly possessions or have reached a state of total simplicity.