డబ్బు లేని వాడు డుబ్బుకు కొరగాడు

In the commercial world of ours, all become slaves/worshippers of money. The proverb cautions against the excessive power of money over human psychology and tries to advise people to consider other values in life as well.

This proverb highlights that courage and self-confidence are more valuable than material wealth. It is used to describe a situation where a person, despite having financial resources, cannot achieve anything or defend themselves because they lack the necessary boldness or character.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely stingy or miserly. It suggests that for such individuals, parting with their money is as painful or difficult as losing their life. It highlights a deep, inseparable attachment to wealth.

This proverb highlights that basic necessities like food (koodu) and clothing (cheera) are the primary requirements for living. It is used to suggest that one should not stay in a place or a job where even their fundamental needs are not met, as such a place is of no value to them.

This proverb lists three things that fail to serve their intended purpose. It emphasizes that utility and harmony are essential in relationships and tools. If a lamp doesn't provide light, a spouse doesn't provide companionship, or a child is constantly unruly, they cannot fulfill their roles effectively.

This proverb lists things that fail to fulfill their primary purpose. A lamp is meant to give light; if it is dim, it is useless. A spouse is meant for loyalty; if unfaithful, the relationship is broken. A child is meant to be held with joy; if they cry incessantly, it becomes a burden. It is used to describe people or things that are technically present but fail to provide the intended comfort or utility.

* Vultus est index animi. 39

This expression highlights that money and life are deeply interconnected. It is used to describe situations where financial stability is essential for survival, or conversely, when one risks their life for financial gain. It implies that people value their wealth as much as their life, or that wealth is the 'lifeblood' of one's existence.

This expression highlights the power of wealth in determining social status and comfort. It contrasts the extreme luxury one can enjoy with money against the struggle and lack of basic respect one faces in poverty.

This expression refers to the social reality where people lose interest or hospitality when they realize there is no financial benefit or money involved. It describes how the lack of money can lead to immediate rejection or a cold shoulder in various situations.

This expression means that if someone develops a habit of stealing or greedily taking small amounts of money, they will eventually progress to committing much larger thefts. It is used as a warning that bad habits or petty crimes, if left unchecked, will inevitably lead to more serious consequences and greater greed.