ముండమొయ్య వచ్చునుగాని, నింద మొయ్యరాదు

This proverb is used to describe a situation where certain necessary conditions must be met before an outcome—often a negative or inevitable one—can occur. It highlights the logical sequence of events, implying that one cannot experience the consequences of a state (like widowhood) without first entering that state (marriage).

This proverb emphasizes that speaking the truth might lead to temporary criticism or accusations from others who are uncomfortable with it, but ultimately, the person remains honorable. It suggests that while one might be blamed for being blunt or honest, their character remains untarnished in the long run, unlike the shame that follows a lie.

In traditional society, widowhood was considered the ultimate hardship. This proverb emphasizes that losing one's reputation or facing a false accusation is even more painful and harder to endure than the greatest personal tragedies. It highlights the supreme importance of personal honor and character over physical or social suffering.

This proverb describes a hypocritical situation where someone creates a problem or hurts another person, but then pretends to be the victim or shouts for help to gain sympathy and deflect blame. It is used to mock people who act innocent after being the aggressor.

This proverb describes a paradoxical or impossible desire, highlighting human selfishness or hypocrisy. Since a woman can only become a widow if her husband (the son) dies, wishing for both simultaneously is a logical contradiction. It is used to mock people who want all the benefits for themselves without accepting the necessary consequences, or those who harbor ill will that would ultimately hurt their own interests.

This expression is used to signify that certain consequences or outcomes cannot occur unless a specific preliminary action or event takes place first. It emphasizes the logical order of events, often used in a cynical or blunt manner to point out that a process must be initiated before its end result (even a negative one) can be realized.

This proverb contrasts the behavior of an openly angry or short-tempered person with that of a sly, manipulative person. It suggests that while a hot-tempered person may be loud or harsh, their feelings are transparent and predictable. In contrast, a deceitful person (Nalimuchu) hides their true intentions and can cause much more harm from within. It is used to advise that honesty, even if blunt, is better than hidden malice.

This proverb highlights the danger of untrustworthy and treacherous people. While a powerful person might be intimidating, their actions are often predictable or manageable. However, a 'naalimuchu' (a double-dealer or a person with a hidden agenda) is far more dangerous because their betrayal comes from within the home, making it impossible to find peace or safety.

This proverb emphasizes that loss of reputation or a stain on one's character is far more painful and difficult to endure than even the most tragic personal misfortune or social hardship. It highlights the supreme importance of personal honor over physical or social suffering.

This proverb is used to explain that you can only help or encourage someone who is already making an effort to succeed. It implies that external assistance has limits and is most effective when the recipient is proactive and self-motivated.

* Domandar chi naque prima, l' uovo o la gallina.