«بِنْتِ الْأَكَابِرْ غَالْيَهْ وَلَوْ تُكُونْ جَارْيَهْ»

The saying holds that real worth remains even when circumstances reduce a person's position or apparent value. A change in fortune may alter outward status, but it does not necessarily erase the qualities for which someone or something is esteemed.

It can also be applied to what remains fine despite decline or neglect. Its image of female birth rank and enslavement reflects a historical social order; it should not be taken as endorsing social hierarchy, stereotypes, or the treatment of people as property.

Use it as a traditional saying when emphasizing that merit survives a fall in circumstances or status. Because it invokes birth rank, a female figure, and enslavement, use it cautiously and avoid directing it at individuals in ways that could sound demeaning.