Popular Proverbs from Jabal Amel (Part 2)
Compiled by historian Kassem Hejeij
"Whoever plants on the mountain will find its fruits in the valley."
This proverb reflects the idea that hard work in a tough environment can yield positive results later, either in a different place or at a later time. Just as working in the mountains is difficult but leads to fruitful rewards in the plains, this saying encourages investing effort and perseverance, even in difficult circumstances, because the rewards can be significant in the future.
"In the heart of the mountain, you find the wisdom of the years."
This proverb suggests that mountains, as symbols of strength and endurance, hold within them accumulated wisdom from the passage of time. The cracks and peaks of the mountains contain stories from ancient ages. It implies that life’s hardships and experiences carry valuable lessons and wisdom gained through trials and challenges. It also highlights the value of wisdom acquired through perseverance.
"The mountain is tall, but it does not know the impossible."
This proverb means that although the journey to the top—whether literally climbing a mountain or metaphorically reaching success—may be long and difficult, nothing is impossible with determination and willpower. The mountain, despite its height and difficulty, does not acknowledge impossibility. It encourages the belief that any goal can be achieved with hard work and persistence.
"The mountain moves, but the valley stays in place."
This proverb symbolizes change and growth. Over time, mountains shift and erode due to natural forces, while valleys remain in their place. It serves as a metaphor for life’s phases of transformation and growth, while recognizing that some things—like fundamental values and principles—remain constant. It highlights the balance between change and stability.
"Every stone in the mountain has its place, and every heart has its peace."
This saying emphasizes that everything in life has its rightful place and purpose, just as every stone in the mountain has a specific position. Likewise, every person has a place where they find security and peace, whether in society or in their personal life. The proverb encourages people to find where they truly belong and feel comfortable, whether in their community or personal environment.
"If you don’t climb the mountain, you won’t see the flowers."
This proverb conveys that beautiful rewards and great opportunities come after patience and effort. If you are unwilling to climb the mountain—meaning, take on challenges—you will not experience the beauty that awaits at the top. The mountain represents hardships and struggles, while the flowers symbolize the rewards and successes. It calls for perseverance and the courage to face difficulties in order to achieve benefits later.
"Iron bends on the mountain, but not in the valley."
This proverb means that true strength is revealed in tough conditions, just as iron shows its resilience in the harsh, mountainous terrain. In the plains, where conditions are easier, this strength may not be as apparent. It suggests that strong individuals or qualities become evident in difficult times. It is a call to prove one’s strength and endurance in challenging situations.
"Everything that stands tall is under the eyes of time."
This saying expresses that anything grand or high, like mountains, is still subject to the effects of time. While mountains seem unshakable, they eventually erode and change over the years. The proverb serves as a reminder that no matter how strong or powerful something appears, it is not immune to time’s passage. It encourages humility and the understanding that nothing remains the same forever, urging people to appreciate the present moment.
"Patience on the mountain brings peace to the soul."
This proverb links patience and perseverance with inner peace. Climbing a mountain, with all its challenges, requires patience and endurance, but reaching the top brings a sense of accomplishment and tranquility. It encourages maintaining patience and calm during difficult times, as the rewards at the end will be fulfilling and satisfying.
"He who doesn’t feel the breeze won’t understand the mountain’s cold."
This proverb suggests that a person who has not gone through life’s experiences or challenges cannot truly appreciate the relief or rewards that come afterward. The mountain represents struggles, while the cold breeze symbolizes the refreshing feeling of overcoming hardships. It encourages embracing difficulties, as they bring a deeper understanding and appreciation of life’s rewards.
