- English translation
A sturdy, handsome camel, but with a tattered old sandal hanging from its neck.
- Literal wording
A sound, well-built camel, and on its neck a worn-out sandal.
- Meaning and lesson
Picture a powerful, well-formed camel with a battered old sandal tied around its neck. Everything about the animal commands admiration, yet that one shabby object catches the eye and cheapens the whole sight, making a fine beast look faintly ridiculous.
Turned toward people, it describes someone accomplished and held in high regard who is marred by a single fault, habit, or attachment. That one blemish detracts from their dignity and lets others belittle a person who otherwise deserves respect.
- When it is used
Use it to observe, with some regret, that a capable or esteemed person is let down by one unfortunate trait, companion, or lapse. It concedes genuine merit while pointing to the flaw that undermines it, so it suits rueful remarks rather than outright condemnation.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: A sturdy, handsome camel, but with a tattered old sandal hanging from its neck.