ProverbHub
Arabic · Arabic scriptProverb: Verified

«اِلصِّيتْ وَلَا الْغِنَى»

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
English translation

Better to be famous than to be rich.

Literal wording

Renown, and not riches.

Meaning and lesson

The proverb ranks renown above riches. Having one's name known and spoken of widely is treated as the more desirable possession, while an abundance of money is placed second.

Spoken as a statement of priorities, it sets prominence and wealth side by side and chooses prominence. The prized quality is simply being well known, not specifically a morally good or honorable reputation.

When it is used

Suited to moments when fame and fortune are being compared, whether stating one's own preference for being widely known over being wealthy or remarking on someone who appears to value prominence above money.

Cite or copy proverb

How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.

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