- English translation
A woman of good breeding who bears hardship patiently ends up with a thriving home.
- Literal wording
A noble woman was patient; in her house she built it up.
- Meaning and lesson
The proverb holds up as a model the honorable, sensible woman who bears her husband's offenses with patience. Here حرة means a freeborn or well-bred woman, not 'free' in the modern sense of independence. By staying rather than fleeing, she keeps her household standing and lets it prosper; عمرت refers to the home flourishing, not to long life.
It also implies a contrast with the impulsive woman who storms off at the first provocation, suggesting such rashness seldom leads to a lasting marriage. Because the saying commends enduring a husband's mistreatment, presenting it today without comment may appear to excuse domestic harm rather than record a traditional view.
- When it is used
Traditionally said to praise a wife who endures her husband's offenses and remains in the household, or to criticize a wife who leaves over a grievance. It expresses a gendered expectation of marital endurance and may sound like approval of tolerating mistreatment.
- Register
- colloquial
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: A woman of good breeding who bears hardship patiently ends up with a thriving home.