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Arabic · Arabic scriptProverb: Verified

«يَا اللِّي زَيِّنَا تَعَالُوا حَيِّنَا»

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
English translation

All you who are our kind, come live in our quarter.

Literal wording

O you who are like us, come to our neighborhood.

Meaning and lesson

The saying calls on those who share one's nature, circumstances or outlook to come and settle alongside one another in the same quarter. Its core idea is that people who resemble each other get along most easily, so like-minded folk should gather in one neighborhood and keep each other company.

An implied second half advises steering clear of those who differ from you. Mixing with people unlike yourself is pictured as a source of friction, while staying among your own kind promises a calmer life. The rhyme of zayyina and hayyina gives the invitation a chant-like ring.

When it is used

Fits moments when someone favors keeping company with people of the same temperament, standing or habits, such as choosing neighbors, friends or partners. It can sound warmly welcoming toward kindred spirits, yet it may come across as cliquish or exclusionary toward outsiders.

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