పూజ కన్నా బుద్ధి, మాట కన్నా మనసు ప్రధానం

puja kanna buddhi, mata kanna manasu pradhanam

Translation

Character is more important than worship; intent is more important than words.

Meaning

This proverb emphasizes that inner purity and genuine intentions are far more significant than outward religious rituals or superficial speech. It is used to remind people that having a clean heart and a good conscience defines a person's true nature better than mere displays of piety or eloquence.

Related Phrases

Interest is sweeter than the principal; a grandson is dearer than a son.

This proverb highlights the human tendency to cherish secondary outcomes or subsequent generations more than the original source. Just as a moneylender might value the accumulating interest over the original capital, grandparents often feel a deeper, more indulgent affection for their grandchildren than they did for their own children.

Character is more important than worship, and intent is more important than words

This expression emphasizes that internal purity and sincerity are superior to outward rituals or eloquent speech. It suggests that one's conscience and true intentions define their character more than formal religious acts or mere promises.

Word is harsh, heart is soft

This expression is used to describe a person who speaks bluntly or harshly on the outside but is actually kind-hearted and compassionate on the inside. It is similar to the English idiom 'His bark is worse than his bite.'

Smaller than the king, but bigger than the minister.

This expression is used to describe a middle-ground position or an intermediary status where one is subordinate to the top authority but holds power over others. It is often used as a riddle answer for 'the finger' (the middle finger is next to the forefinger) or in a social context to describe middle management or individuals who are stuck between two different levels of hierarchy.

Spoken words are worse than heard words

This expression highlights the power and potential danger of speech. While listening to something bad is passive, speaking ill of someone or spreading rumors is an active, more harmful deed. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of what one says, as spoken words can cause more damage than what one simply hears.

Lies are better than backbiting.

This expression is used to suggest that it is better to hear something blunt or even incorrect rather than being given false promises or misleading information that is never fulfilled. It emphasizes the frustration of broken commitments.

Character is more important than caste

This proverb emphasizes that a person's character, virtues, and behavior are far more significant than their social status, lineage, or the community they were born into. It is used to advocate for meritocracy and moral integrity over inherited identity.

Is there a flood even before the rain?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the consequences or reactions appear prematurely, even before the actual event or cause has occurred. It is often used to critique someone who is overreacting, worrying excessively, or making assumptions before they have any basis in reality.

Wealth is more important than lineage/caste.

This proverb suggests that in the practical world, a person's financial status and prosperity are often given more importance and respect than their family background or caste. It is used to highlight the power of wealth in social standings.

A broken heart cannot be mended.

This expression is used to describe a situation where trust is shattered or deep emotional hurt is caused. Just as a crushed object cannot be restored to its original state, once a person's heart or spirit is broken by betrayal or severe disappointment, the relationship or their mental peace can never truly be the same again.