- English translation
Better a smiling face than a handful of jewels.
- Literal wording
A cheerful face, and not a jewel the fill of the palm.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying ranks a kind, welcoming face above material wealth. Being received with a smile and genuine warmth is worth more to the speaker than a palmful of precious stones, an image of large and costly abundance.
More broadly, it voices a social ideal in which courtesy and good cheer outweigh expensive gestures. A gift offered with a sour face loses its value, while a modest encounter brightened by sincere friendliness leaves a lasting good impression.
- When it is used
Say this when someone values a warm welcome over lavish gifts, or to remind a host that sincere friendliness matters more than costly generosity. It suits remarks on manners and hospitality.
- Register
- Colloquial Arabic
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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