కత్తికి మెత్తన, అత్తకు మంచి లేదు.

This traditional proverb suggests that certain things are inherently difficult or bitter by nature. Just as the neem tree is known for its bitterness, the mother-in-law relationship was historically viewed as naturally contentious or stern in traditional households. It is used to describe situations where a positive outcome or a pleasant personality is considered impossible due to the inherent nature of the person or role.

This proverb is used to describe relationships or objects that are inherently sharp or harsh by nature. It suggests that just as a knife's purpose is to cut and it cannot be blunt or soft, a mother-in-law (in traditional contexts) is expected to be strict or demanding, and one should not expect otherwise.

This proverb highlights two perceived universal truths: that a mother-in-law is rarely seen as 'good' or appreciated by a daughter-in-law, just as a tamarind fruit is almost never considered truly 'raw' because of its inherent sourness and immediate utility. It is used to describe situations where a person's nature is fixed or where a certain relationship is traditionally difficult and unlikely to change.

This expression suggests that an honest person with a clear conscience does not need to fear any consequences or dangers for a long time. It emphasizes that integrity provides long-term protection and peace of mind, implying that a person who lives rightly remains fearless throughout their lifetime (a 'mandala' often referring to a specific long cycle of time or the horizon).

This is a traditional proverb used to describe situations or relationships that are inherently difficult or sharp by nature. Just as a knife cannot fulfill its purpose if it is soft, the proverb suggests that the relationship with a mother-in-law is traditionally expected to be strict or stern rather than purely 'soft' or 'kind'. It is often used to comment on the inevitable friction in certain roles or power dynamics.

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This expression is used to describe a person of great power and unwavering integrity. It implies that the person is physically invincible or authoritative (the sword) and that they are exceptionally honorable, always keeping their promises and never retracting what they have said (the word).

This proverb is equivalent to 'don't cry over spilled milk'. It is used to suggest that once something has happened or a mistake has been made that cannot be undone, there is no use in feeling regret or sorrow about it; instead, one should move forward.

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 is used to describe something or someone that is of high quality both inside and out. Just as the quality of an onion is determined by its core, the character of a person or the integrity of a thing is judged by its inner essence. It suggests that true quality is consistent throughout.

This traditional proverb highlights the stereotypically harsh relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law in olden times. It suggests that just as a sword is inherently sharp and never soft, a mother-in-law is inherently demanding and lacks patience toward her daughter-in-law. It is used to describe situations where someone is naturally stern or an environment that is unforgiving.