Popular Proverbs from Jabal Amel (Part 3)
Compiled by historian Kassem Hejeij
"A tree only bears fruit if it is planted in the mountain."
This proverb highlights that challenges and hardships shape a person and give them the ability to succeed. A tree planted in easy soil may not grow to its full potential, but one planted in the mountains becomes stronger and more resilient. It is a call to seek opportunities in challenges and not fear difficult circumstances, as they build strength and character.
"Whoever aims for the mountain will find a path."
This saying expresses that anyone with determination and perseverance to reach a great goal will eventually find a way, even if the journey seems long and difficult. It compares a person facing major challenges (like climbing a mountain) to someone who, through persistence, will discover a path to success. It encourages resilience and persistence in overcoming obstacles, as nothing is impossible with strong willpower.
"A mountain does not break, just as a person who knows patience does not falter."
This proverb draws a connection between the solidity of mountains and the strength of patience. A mountain does not easily crumble, just as a patient person cannot be easily defeated. It emphasizes that endurance and patience are the keys to overcoming life’s difficulties. It is a call to remain steadfast and hopeful during tough times.
"The wind only affects the weak tree."
This proverb illustrates that weak or unsteady individuals are easily influenced by their surroundings, just as wind shakes a fragile tree. In contrast, strong trees—or mountains—remain unaffected. It encourages people to strengthen themselves, whether in character or skills, so they can withstand life’s challenges with resilience and strength.
"The mountain doesn’t move, but those on it must carry its weight."
This saying means that major challenges (like a mountain) remain fixed, but it is the people facing them who bear the burden. It implies that those who encounter difficulties in life must take responsibility and confront their struggles head-on. It is a call for self-reliance and courage rather than avoiding problems.
"Not every mountain must be conquered, and not every stone must be thrown."
This proverb conveys wisdom in dealing with life’s challenges. Not every difficulty must be tackled with force, and not every problem should be ignored. Some challenges can be beneficial if we learn from them. The mountain represents obstacles, while the stone symbolizes problems. It is a reminder to think carefully before making decisions and to differentiate between what must be overcome and what requires patience.
"The mountain does not fear the wind, just as a person should not fear peoples words."
This saying equates the stability of a mountain with a persons ability to withstand criticism or negative opinions. Just as wind does not shake a mountain, people should not let others words affect them if they know their worth and trust themselves. It encourages steadfastness in ones beliefs and goals without being swayed by negativity.
"The higher the mountain, the stronger the winds."
This proverb reflects the reality that challenges and difficulties increase as one reaches greater heights or achieves bigger goals. Just as tall mountains face stronger winds, people striving for success will encounter greater obstacles. It encourages perseverance when pursuing ambitions, as success often comes with challenges that test one’s determination.
"No mountain is without a peak, and no heart is without hope."
This saying connects mountains to human aspirations. Just as every mountain has a summit, every heart carries hope. It implies that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a goal to reach and a reason to keep moving forward. It is a message of optimism and perseverance, affirming that every hardship has an end, and hope resides in every heart.
"A dry mountain remains the same, but a mountain with flowers is always changing."
This proverb conveys the idea that growth and change are essential to life. A barren mountain, with no plants or life, stays unchanged, while a mountain covered in flowers and greenery is in constant transformation. It emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and adaptation, suggesting that those who remain stagnant may miss out on the beauty and creativity that change brings.
