Proverbs from Southeast Asia

“Any water in the desert will do.” India

Proverbs and old sayings reveal many aspects about the cultural  traditions of a society. Proverbs originated from indigenous people who handed down these wise old sayings over the centuries, generation to generation. Many proverbs serve as advisory tales and wise counsel. Here are some things you might learn when visiting Southeast Asia.

“Calm water does not mean that there are no crocodiles” Indonesia

“Those who can’t dance blame it on the flute and the drum.” Thailand

“Don’t play the violin for the buffalo to listen to.” Thailand

“Don’t let an angry man wash dishes; don’t let a hungry man guard the rice.’ Cambodia

“Don’t bargain for fish that are still in the water.’ India

“Without a woman’s help, a man cannot set up a tent.” Tibet

‘Live with vultures, and become a vulture; live with crows, and become a crow.” Laos

“When it rains, collect the water” Myanmar

“To take revenge on an enemy, give him an elephant — first he must thank you for the gift, and then the elephant’s appetite will deplete your enemy’s resources.’Nepal

“When you are shopping for a cow, make sure that the price of the tail is included.” Sri Lanka

“Be careful of the teacher you choose and the water you drink.” Bangladesh

“You can dress a monkey in a suit, but it is still a monkey.” Pakistan

Stay safe,

JAZ