«الْحَيَا فِي الرِّجَالْ يُورِثِ الْفَقْرْ»

The saying warns that a man who is too shy to claim what belongs to him, or too timid to act when hesitation is costly, will end up the loser. Here الحيا means bashfulness, not life or rain. His reluctance lets rights slip away and closes off chances to earn a living.

It does not mock decency or modesty itself. It criticizes reticence shown at the wrong moment, when boldness is needed. Though phrased about men, applying it to anyone is an interpretive extension. Material well-being often depends on asking, insisting, and stepping forward.

Suitable for urging someone to speak up for wages, debts, or opportunities owed to them, or for gently teasing a friend whose reluctance to ask has left them short. It works best as encouragement rather than as criticism of good manners.