Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-09-27
Meaning: Verified- English translation
Even a brother may wish you well without wishing you to surpass him.
- Literal wording
Your brother does not want you rich enough to have no need of him, but he does not want you to die either.
- Meaning and lesson
Affection can have limits: someone may care about your life and welfare yet resent seeing you become more successful or independent than they are.
- When it is used
Used to point out the envy or rivalry that can persist even in a close relationship.
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- Colloquial, proverbial
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How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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