- English translation
A living comes to those who are quick on their feet.
- Literal wording
Livelihood loves lightness.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that rizq—livelihood, sustenance, and provision broadly, often with a sense of what is allotted to a person, not merely money—rewards those who are quick, active, and ready to move. Such provision favors energetic people, so anyone hoping to secure it must stay alert and get going rather than wait around.
The 'lightness' it praises means nimbleness and briskness of action, not frivolity or a cheerful mood. It thus works as a mild warning against sluggishness and heaviness: someone who drags their feet, hesitates, or lets laziness slow them down is implied to miss chances that a more agile, diligent person would seize first.
- When it is used
Suitable when urging someone to act promptly on a work opportunity, trade, or errand tied to earning, or when gently teasing a person who dawdles. It fits informal, spoken exchanges and works best as encouragement rather than harsh criticism.
- Register
- Colloquial Arabic
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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