నీళ్లు తాగేవాడికి నిలుకడ లేదు

This proverb is used to describe someone who lacks integrity and frequently changes their stance or promises. It specifically refers to people who are unreliable, fickle, or untrustworthy in their speech, much like an uncouth official who changes rules at his whim.

This proverb is used as a warning to not judge anything based solely on its outward appearance. Just because something looks familiar or pure (like milk) doesn't mean it is. It emphasizes that reality can be different from superficial perception, advising people to be cautious and look deeper before forming a judgment.

This proverb functions as a metaphor for the law of karma and accountability. It means that every action has a consequence, and one must eventually face the results of their deeds. Just as eating salt inevitably leads to thirst, committing an act (especially a wrong or illegal one) will inevitably lead to its natural repercussions or punishment.

This proverb emphasizes that it is better to do things slowly, safely, and correctly than to rush through something high-value or complex and risk failure. It highlights the importance of stability and patience over a hurried pursuit of success.

This expression is used to describe someone who is untrustworthy, manipulative, or frequently changes their stance. A 'black tongue' (machanaluka) metaphorically refers to someone whose words can bring misfortune or someone who lies habitually, implying that their promises or statements cannot be relied upon.

This proverb suggests that stagnation leads to decay or dullness, while movement and change keep one fresh and active. In a practical sense, it can also mean that those who stay in one place or position for a long time are the ones who accumulate habits, reputations, or results, whether positive or negative.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who is already in a miserable or poor state (drinking simple gruel) has an unnecessary assistant or a hanger-on performing a trivial task. It is used to mock people who maintain high airs despite poverty, or to describe having useless assistants when the task at hand is very simple.

This proverb highlights things that lack permanence or reliability. Just as the shade of a tall, thin palm tree shifts rapidly and offers no real shelter, an illicit or informal relationship lacks legal or social security. It is used to describe situations or people that cannot be depended upon in the long run.

This proverb describes how people with bad habits or those who indulge in intoxicants often find a group of followers or sycophants who encourage them. It is used to highlight that a person's vices easily attract like-minded company or flatterers who join in for the sake of companionship or free benefits.

This proverb is used to describe a person who does not stick to their word or lacks consistency in their promises. Just as it is impossible to pack or carry water in a bundle, the promises of an inconsistent person have no substance and cannot be relied upon.