నవ్వుతూ తిడితివూ, నరకాన పడితివూ

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone seeks help from a person who is even worse or more incompetent than themselves. It highlights a scenario where both parties involved are problematic, but one is significantly more extreme or crude than the other, suggesting that no good outcome can result from their collaboration.

This proverb suggests that there are many ways to fall into vice or make mistakes (symbolized by the nine openings of the human body and worldly distractions), whereas the path to virtue or liberation is singular and requires disciplined focus. It is used to caution someone that it is easy to go astray but difficult to find the right path.

This expression refers to a situation where someone says something hurtful, insulting, or sarcastic under the guise of humor or a smile. It implies that even if an insult is delivered pleasantly, the negative intent or sin remains the same, leading to spiritual or social consequences.

This expression describes someone who has suffered through prolonged, excruciating illness or hardship for a long time before finally passing away or reaching a state of absolute misery. It is used to emphasize a journey of continuous suffering where death or the final outcome feels like a tragic end to a painful process.

This proverb emphasizes the power and danger of speech. 'Passing the nose' refers to the breath (life/meditation), leading to spiritual liberation, whereas 'passing the tongue' refers to careless or hurtful speech, which leads to trouble or 'hell'. It is used to advise someone to think before they speak and to maintain self-control over their words.

This proverb highlights human nature regarding respect and dignity. It means that while people are happy to accept favors or gifts, they will not tolerate being insulted or treated poorly. It is used to advise someone that providing material help does not give them the right to verbal abuse.

This proverb warns that actions taken impulsively, playfully, or without due thought can have irreversible and painful consequences. It emphasizes that regret cannot undo the damage caused by a foolish mistake or a lack of foresight.

This expression highlights that while people are happy to accept benefits, favors, or gifts, they will not tolerate disrespect or insults in return. It is often used to remind someone that providing for others (like food or money) does not give them the right to be abusive or rude, as human dignity is valued above material gains.

This expression is used to describe a person who is extremely sensitive or lacks resilience. It highlights that they react negatively to even the smallest forms of criticism or physical hardship. It can also be used to point out obvious cause-and-effect reactions in human emotions and physical sensations.

This proverb is used to warn someone that the actions or mistakes they commit lightheartedly or out of greed will eventually lead to painful consequences that they will have to endure with regret.

Said of criminals.