తల తిరిగి అయినా కబళము నోటికి రావలెను.

This expression is used to describe someone who is extremely lazy or lacks initiative. It refers to a person who, when given a large task (circling the village), performs the smallest, most effortless version of it (circling the grinding stone inside the house) and claims they are finished.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of maintaining certain boundaries, privacy, or modesty even with those closest to us. It suggests that complete exposure or lack of restraint, even in the most intimate relationships, can lead to a loss of respect or dignity.

* Ἀπέφαλος μῦθος.

This expression is used to condemn a person who habitually tells lies. In traditional contexts, applying lime (chunam) to the mouth would cause a painful burning sensation. It is a metaphorical way of saying that a liar deserves a harsh punishment or should have their mouth shut for good due to their constant deceit.

This proverb is used to indicate that once a task has been initiated or a commitment has been made, it must be carried out to completion regardless of the difficulties or change of heart. It is often applied to situations where one has reached a point of no return and must fulfill their obligation.

This expression is used to describe a person who does not understand instructions properly or takes an unnecessarily long and round-about way to do a simple task. It highlights inefficiency or foolishness in following directions.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone takes a long, complicated, or roundabout way to do something that could have been done very simply and directly. It highlights unnecessary complexity or lack of efficiency.

This proverb emphasizes that one should aim for extremes rather than being stuck in the middle. It suggests that a person should either be completely detached from worldly possessions (like a master ascetic/beggar) or be immensely wealthy (a millionaire), as both positions command a certain type of freedom or influence, whereas being in the middle often brings struggle and dissatisfaction.

This proverb emphasizes that when you stand your ground and face a problem or an enemy bravely, they lose their power to harm you. It is used to encourage courage and resilience in the face of adversity, suggesting that fear attracts more trouble while confrontation can end it.

This proverb suggests that success begins at home. If a person cannot manage their own domestic affairs or earn the respect of their family, they are unlikely to succeed in public life or handle community matters effectively.

This proverb describes a situation where someone wants to have their cake and eat it too. It is used when a person tries to hold onto two mutually exclusive options or wants all the benefits of a situation without making any sacrifices or choices.

* Man kan ikke drikke og pibe paa eengang.