Popular Proverbs from Jabal Amel
Compiled by historian Kassem Hejeij
"Whoever sows the mountain will reap the plain."
This proverb conveys the idea that if a person starts with a difficult or challenging task (such as working in the harsh mountainous terrain), they will eventually reap easier and more abundant rewards in the end. Cultivating land in the mountains requires extra effort due to difficult terrain, but the harvest in the plains is more fruitful and less labor-intensive. It serves as a metaphor for life—hard work in tough times leads to greater success in the future. It can also be interpreted as a call for patience and faith that hard effort will yield good results.
"The mountain is not shaken by the wind, nor does steel fear it."
This proverb uses the mountain as a symbol of strength and stability, representing people or things that remain unaffected by their surroundings. While the wind can sway weak objects, the mountain stands firm. Similarly, steel is a strong metal that does not yield easily. This saying highlights individuals who possess inner strength and resilience in the face of challenges, whether in personal life or in their work.
"Not every stone in the mountain is the same."
This proverb speaks to the diversity and uniqueness among people and things. A mountain is filled with stones, each with its own shape and nature. Similarly, individuals have their own distinct traits and life experiences that set them apart. It serves as a reminder to embrace differences in society and to avoid judging others based on appearances or backgrounds. Every person has their own worth and unique personality.
"Camels may live on the mountain, but the heart finds peace in the plain."
This proverb reflects the balance between ambition and the need for peace and stability. The mountain represents great aspirations—chasing high goals—while the plain symbolizes the comfort and security that come with stability. It suggests that those who pursue ambitious dreams (the mountain) may experience anxiety or struggle along the way, but true peace and comfort come from finding balance between ambition and stability.
"Whoever loves the mountain can carry its stones."
This proverb emphasizes that a person who is passionate about a goal or committed to a great cause will be willing to endure the hardships that come with it. Someone who loves the mountain will gladly carry its stones, no matter how heavy they may be. This reflects the idea that those who truly believe in their purpose will have the determination and strength to face any challenge. It also conveys the importance of persistence in pursuing dreams, no matter the obstacles.
"He who does not know the mountain cannot understand its greatness."
This proverb means that those who have not experienced difficulties or challenges firsthand may not fully appreciate the strength and resilience of those who have. The mountain here symbolizes struggle and endurance, and those who have not lived through such trials cannot truly understand their significance. It is a call to recognize and respect the experiences of those who have faced hardships.
"Just as the mountain is strong, it does not know fear."
This proverb links strength with the ability to overcome fear. The mountain, with its solid and unyielding nature, is not affected by fear. It serves as a metaphor for individuals who face life with courage and determination. It encourages people to be brave and not allow fear or difficulties to hinder their progress.
"From Jabal Amel, generosity flows in the blood—it never ends."
This proverb reflects the deep-rooted tradition of generosity and hospitality in the Jabal Amel region. Generosity here is portrayed as an intrinsic part of the peoples identity, something that runs in their blood and is passed down through generations. It highlights the importance of hospitality and mutual support within the community.
"If you don’t climb the mountain, you won’t see the view."
This proverb encourages perseverance and challenge in order to attain great rewards. The mountain symbolizes a goal or achievement, while the beautiful view represents the reward. It implies that success and valuable experiences require effort and hard work, and one cannot enjoy the benefits without striving to reach the top. It is a call to embrace challenges and remain determined to achieve one’s aspirations.
"The mountain does not come down, and the valley cannot carry its stone."
This proverb expresses the idea of strength and immovability in the face of hardships. No matter how strong the winds or difficult the conditions, the mountain remains unshaken. On the other hand, the valley—symbolizing those who lack strength—cannot even carry a single stone. It highlights that overcoming obstacles requires resilience and inner strength, and those who lack it may struggle to bear even small burdens.
