- English translation
Blessings on the circumcision, my noble lords!
- Literal wording
Congratulations on the circumcision, O companies of princes!
- Meaning and lesson
The saying offers congratulations on a circumcision, the sense of الطهارة here rather than ritual purity or cleanliness, in a deliberately inflated, courtly tone. It addresses humble people as if they were an assembly of princes. The grand address is ironic, not sincere; the gap between that lofty manner and the actual situation creates the mockery.
In practice it mocks someone of little standing who makes a fuss over something minor. The speaker pretends to honor the occasion while signaling that neither the people nor the achievement deserve such ceremony.
- When it is used
Said mostly in mockery, with mock solemnity, when someone of modest standing makes much of a small gain, congratulating them as though royalty were celebrating. Because it belittles the person addressed, using it seriously or toward someone sensitive may cause offense.
- Register
- Colloquial; typically sarcastic or teasing
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Blessings on the circumcision, my noble lords!