Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-23
Meaning: Verified- English translation
A child is never truly an enemy to their parents.
- Literal wording
The womb does not bring forth an enemy.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that kinship between parents and children endures even when a child’s conduct, resentment, or rejection makes the relationship look openly hostile.
It urges parents not to read defiance or ill will as proof that their child has become an enemy. Such conduct can arise from rashness or poor character without cancelling the underlying family bond.
- When it is used
Used in family conflict to encourage parents not to treat a resentful, disobedient, or rejecting child as an enemy, despite behavior that appears hostile.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: A child is never truly an enemy to their parents.