పేదల బిగువు, సాధుల తగవు

This expression refers to the constant nitpicking, psychological pressure, or harassment a woman faces from her mother-in-law. In a broader sense, it is used to describe any situation where someone in a position of domestic authority or seniority constantly criticizes or torments someone under their care or control.

Among Hindus the husband's mother, when living, rules the house, and to her the wife is subject. The husband's mother is the wife's devil. (German.)* * Des Mannes Mutter ist der Frau Teufel. 2 ( 9 )

This expression is used to describe a situation where a problem or a task initially appears to be massive and overwhelming (like a mountain), but is resolved very easily or disappears without much consequence (like thin mist or dew). It is often used to express relief after a major scare.

This proverb describes a person who, despite being in a destitute or miserable condition, refuses to give up their false pride, vanity, or pretentiousness. It is used to mock people who maintain an air of superiority or maintain expensive habits even when they are bankrupt or in need of help.

This expression refers to the unnecessary pride or stubbornness shown by people who are not in a position to afford such an attitude. It is used to describe a situation where someone lacks resources but still acts with a stiff, unyielding, or overly dignified posture, often to their own disadvantage.

This expression describes a state of total exhaustion, aging, or complete lack of vitality. It is used when a person is both mentally dejected (no glow/happiness on the face) and physically weak (knees failing), indicating they are no longer fit for strenuous work or are feeling the heavy toll of hardship.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears mild-mannered or harmless on the outside but is actually dangerous, cunning, or highly capable like a tiger. It refers to 'wolves in sheep's clothing' or someone who hides their strength and aggression behind a polite facade.

This proverb is used to suggest that appearances can be deceiving or that certain social labels are not always what they seem. It implies that cows, while appearing docile, can be unpredictable or aggressive when provoked, and Brahmins, despite traditionally appearing poor or simple, often possess hidden intellectual or social wealth.

* MÉTROY ἐδώρ πίνοντες ἀμέτρως μάζαν ἐδούτες. 2 ( 9 )

This proverb suggests that a strong, disciplined, or stubborn worker (represented by the ox) requires a firm and capable master or a rigorous task (the farming) to match their capability. It is often used to imply that tough challenges or difficult people need equally strong methods or leadership to be managed effectively.

This proverb describes a person who maintains an air of false pride or arrogance even after losing everything or falling into a miserable state. It is used to mock someone who refuses to let go of their vanity despite being in a position where they must beg or rely on others.

There's nothing agrees worse, than a proud mind and a beggar's purse. * Man kan ikke see en Anden langer end til Tenderne.

This proverb highlights the danger of negligence and lack of discipline. Just as a loose tucking of a garment can lead to embarrassment and a house without a lock is an invitation to thieves, a person without self-control or a system without security is prone to failure and ruin. It is used to advise someone to be firm and secure in their actions.