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Arabic · Arabic scriptProverb: Verified

«وِش بَشُوشْ وَلَا جُوهَرْ بِمَلْوِ الْكَف»

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
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.

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