Proverbs About Trade and Economy – Jabal Amel
Compiled by historian Kassem Hejeij
"A smart merchant sells with his mind before his pocket."
This proverb emphasizes the importance of intelligence and shrewdness in trade. A successful merchant does not rely solely on capital but on his ability to understand markets, knowing when to buy and when to sell. Merchants in Jabal Amel depended on their experience in evaluating prices and bargaining, especially as they traveled between the markets of Sidon, Tyre, Beirut, and Damascus, where prices and trade opportunities constantly fluctuated.
"The market is in your favor one day and against you the next."
This saying highlights the fluctuations of trade and the economy, where the market can be prosperous one day and stagnant the next. Merchants in Jabal Amel faced many challenges, such as Ottoman taxes, changes in supply and demand, and even political conditions that affected trade movements. Therefore, traders were always prepared for the possibility of profit or loss, depending on market shifts.
"Bread only becomes expensive when the farmer leaves."
This proverb underscores the essential role of farmers in maintaining stable food prices. If farmers abandon their lands or their production decreases due to high taxes or difficult conditions, crop prices rise, directly impacting the cost of bread and food. This reflects the reality that farmers are the backbone of the agricultural economy, and if their situation deteriorates, the entire society feels the consequences.
Proverbs About Religious Scholars and Education
"A book is the key to the mind."
This proverb reflects the importance of education and knowledge in shaping thought and awareness. In Jabal Amel, where religious seminaries and traditional schools played a major role in spreading knowledge, education was seen as a means of social and intellectual advancement. Religious scholars encouraged reading and learning, considering them essential for understanding both religion and life.
"Knowledge is light, and ignorance is a grave."
This saying highlights the contrast between knowledge and ignorance, portraying education as a guiding light while ignorance leads to loss and weakness. In Jabal Amel, scholars and religious figures held a prestigious status, and education was valued not only as a means to understand religion but also as a tool to face social and economic challenges.
